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ovoid leaves with inquisitive tendrils that stick to the brickwork like flies' feet. Very late in the season it produces propeller-like buds from which emerge gorgeous flowers that change from limey green to deep purple-blue as they age

that the anthers are purple and brown (apparently looking like decaying flesh to the average carrion fly); a sprig of hawthorn worn in your hat will supposedly protect you from lightning.Since medieval times is has been used as a heart remedy, a diuretic

and that sour smell that haunts institutional kitchens. But I leap to defend purple sprouting broccoli (very classy), red cabbage (with cloves and bacon) and the white curds of cauliflowers.The beetroot used to be considered rather dodgy when it was only

-leaved variety that will light up a shady spot like a 100w lamp. The other is Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace', which has lacy purple leaves and flowers with a slight pink tinge.The most famous contemporary reference to the elder comes in Monty Python and the Holy

. Almost glows in the looming dusk.Rosa laevigata 'Coopers Burmese': a climbing species rose. It only flowers once (though magnificently) but has fabulous hips, deep reddish purple stems and polished evergreen leaves.Feijoia sellowiana: an evergreen silvery