The perfect plant for... a south-facing, free-draining spot This demanding position will scorch lots of plants badly. However, if you pick a subject with leaves that are aromatic, silver, hairy, or finely divided, the chances are it will thrive in open sun on well-drained soil once the roots are established. Pinks, or dianthus, love this open situation better than anything. There are hundreds to choose from, but good whites (like the iconic 'Mrs Sinkins' of 1868) are few and far between. Dianthus 'Memories' (described as a refined form of 'Mrs Sinkins') was only launched at Chelsea last year and was just beaten into second at the Plant of the Year 2012. It's a clove-scented white but the petals are held more tightly without the split calyx typical of 'Mrs Sinkins'. The flowers are full and flouncy with crimped, or pinked, edges, hence this plant's name. Pink didn't become a colour until the late 17th century. 'Memories' was raised by Whetman Pinks, a family firm that specialises in dianthus. They produce five million plants on their Devon nursery every year and have an extensive breeding programme. Other Whetman pinks include 'Brilliant Star' AGM (a maroon-eyed single white) and the full-flowered cyclamen-purple 'Devon Wizard' AGM. Young pinks often produce one flowering stem and this is best removed to encourage more basal growth and bushiness. Pinks also become ragged in time and then they can succumb in winter. In spring, cut back hard any leggy growth and new growth will appear by early May. It is also a good idea to take "insurance" cuttings. Choose non-flowering pieces, strip the lower leaves and plunge the stems into coarse horticultural sand, or a mix of compost and sand. Whetman's website has helpful videos. From good garden centres and Whetman Pinks (01626 863328). A donation of 5p from each sale of 'Memories' (up until December 31) will be made to the Alzheimer's Society