Overview

Salvia somalensis is a bushy shrub in the genus Salvia, part of the Lamiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Salvia somalensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, patio and container plants, wildlife gardens, coastal, mediterranean climate plants and flower borders and beds.

About

Salvia somalensis is a perennial shrub endemic to a limited range and elevation in Somalia. It grows at elevations from 4,000 feet (1,200 m) to 7,000 feet (2,100 m), typically in forest clearings or edges as a common or dominant subshrub.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Salvia

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Salvia somalensis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrub
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Salvia somalensis

Propagation
Seed sown in spring, Softwood cuttings in early summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Salvia somalensis?

Salvia somalensis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Salvia somalensis need?

Salvia somalensis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Salvia somalensis hardy in the UK?

Salvia somalensis has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Salvia somalensis?

Seed sown in spring, Softwood cuttings in early summer.

More in the Salvia genus

Browse all Salvia