About
A clump-forming perennial to 30cm tall, with narrowly linear, rosemary-like leaves. In midsummer it produces tubular, deep violet-blue flowers with a lighter margin; these are held in whorls on softly hairy flowerspikes.
About the genus
A genus of around 60 to 70 species of flowering annuals, perennials and dwarf evergreen shrubs native to temperate parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Plants within this species have aromatic green foliage which can vary from needle-shaped to nettle-like and 2-lipped, sage-like tubular flowers in shades of purple, blue or white
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun with some midday shade. Drought tolerant once established
PruningCut old stems back to ground level in autumn or early spring
PropagationPropagate by division or basal cuttings in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free