Salvia sinaloensis

A wonderfully distinctive little Salvia, forming a low, spreading mound of deep green foliage with hints of purple. From summer into autumn, vivid blue flowers rise just above the leaves, their intense colour beautifully set off by the dark wine-purple stems and calyces.

The flowers are an unusually clear, almost electric blue, with delicate white markings that add to their appeal. Once the flowers fade, the dark calyces remain, giving the plant continued interest well beyond its peak flowering. Growing to around 30cm tall and 60cm wide, it is particularly effective towards the front of a sunny border, spilling gently over a path or wall, or planted in a pot where its unusual colouring can be appreciated up close. It grows well in full sun to part shade, although too much shade can result in a lax plant with less flowering. Will benefit from additional water during hot spells.

Moderately frost hardy, to around −5°C. Protect from severe or prolonged frosts.