Plant of the Month – July – Salvia

We have chosen the Salvia as July’s Plant of the Month because it can bring so much colour to your garden even towards the end of the growing season and is fabulous at attracting pollinators.

Characteristics

The Salvia genus includes around 960 species of herbaceous and woody plants of the mint family. Some of these are ornamental and others are important as sources of flavouring for food such as mint, rosemary and sage. Some varieties offer edible seeds such as Chia. The Salvia’s tubular flowers with distinctive upper and lower lips are densely packed on square stems with velvety leaves. This hardy plant has fragrant foliage that helps to deter hungry deer and rabbits.

Care

Most salvias prefer sunny spots with slightly acidic, well-drained soils. They tend to be quite drought-tolerant and often require little care. Plant after the last frosts are no longer a threat or if growing from seed, simply plant directly into the garden, following packet instructions. Salvias enjoy regular watering during summer months but do not overwater as Salvias do not enjoy waterlogged soil.

We have plenty of varieties in stock including Hot Lips, African Sky, Lavender Dilly Dilly, Pink Pong and Amethyst Lips and prices start from £10.99.

Salvia “Hot Lips” is very popular with it’s striking red and white blooms which flower from June through to mid autumn.