Salvia nipponica ‘Crug’s Cream’

One of the more unusual Salvias, Salvia nipponica ‘Crug’s Cream’ is a compact Japanese species with an appealingly late season of flowering. From autumn, slender stems rise above the dark green foliage carrying clusters of soft cream flowers, each delicately marked with purple around the throat. The markings add a lovely detail to the otherwise restrained flowers and are particularly attractive when viewed up close.

Growing approximately 40–80cm tall and 50–80cm wide, it forms a handsome clump of dark green, three-lobed foliage. In its native Japan it grows in woodland beneath deciduous trees, and in cultivation it appreciates dappled shade or gentle morning sun, particularly where it is protected from hot afternoon conditions.

Flowering can begin in late spring, but autumn is when ‘Crug’s Cream’ really comes into its own, continuing until the plant retreats into winter dormancy. The pale flowers are particularly beautiful in the softer light of autumn and can take on an almost luminous quality towards evening.

Its compact habit makes it an excellent choice for the front of a woodland border, along a shaded path or planted amongst other woodland perennials. It also makes an unusual and attractive specimen for a pot, where the flowers can be appreciated at close quarters.

Once flowering has finished and the foliage begins to die back, allow the plant to become dormant before cutting away the old growth. Marking its position is worthwhile so the dormant crown is not disturbed during winter.