About
A clump-forming perennial 30-60cm high with aromatic, ovate green leaves, and pale cream flowers in upright spikes, from summer to autumn.
About the genus
Salvia can be annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, or shrubs. They have paired, simple or pinnately lobed, often aromatic leaves and 2-lipped flowers in whorls, forming simple or branched spikes or racemes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in light, well-drained soil in full sun with shelter from cold, drying winds
PruningCut back spent flower spikes to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by division in spring, by basal or softwood cuttings in spring or early summer, or by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or autumn with bottom heat
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free but may be susceptible to capsid bug, leafhoppers, slugs and snails, and rosemary beetle
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots