Salvia

Salvia is the largest genus of plants in the sage family Lamiaceae, with nearly 1000 species of shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and annuals. One of several genera commonly referred to as sage, it includes two widely used herbs, Salvia officinalis and Salvia rosmarinus as well as Salvia amistad, the particularly floriferous variety, bearing unusually large, deep purple flowers with almost-black calyces and stems.

Salvia splendens is an upright tender perennial usually grown as an annual, with oval leaves and dense spikes of tubular flowers with large bracts, over a long period in summer and autumn.

Salvia nemorosa is a perennial marvel which flowers from early-to-mid summer and even into late summer and autumn with repeat blooms and will flower in its first year. This hardy plant is a reliable easy-care perennial that thrives in a full sun location (will tolerate partial light shade) in average, well-drained soil. Water regularly until established, thereafter it is drought toleran

Sow indoors from March to May. For best results it is recommended you surface sow on a free draining compost. Seal in a polythene bag and leave in a shady spot for 24-48 hours then cover the seed lightly with compost.

When the seedlings are large enough to handle transplant, handling the seeds with care, into 7.5cm pots and grow on, taking care not to overwater. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for 10-15 days before planting out 30cm apart in a warm, sunny, well drained spot.

Deadheading spent blooms will keep the plant looking tidy, but it is well known to produce further flower spikes without the assistance of deadheading; although deadheading will prevent self-seeding which nemarosa will do with ease.

TOP TIP

For Salvia nemarosa cut back in autumn, unless you live in a cold or exposed location. In this case delay pruning until spring, as the top growth helps to protect growing points at the base over winter. 

For Salvia splendens, to prevent these becoming tall and leggy, encourage bushiness by pinching out the shoot tips in spring and early summer. This will delay flowering slightly, but give you a much fuller plant long-term.