This appealing perennial provides low-growing interest in the front of the Herbaceous Island Beds.
The genus Salvia numbers some 900 species of annuals, biennials, perennials and shrubs, and is one of the larger genera within the mint family, Lamiaceae. Many Salvia are valued for their long flowering season, including Salvia ‘Nachtvlinder’, which comes into flower in early summer and will continue to provide a show of deep-purple, lipped flowers until autumn. Reaching only 75cm in height it is a valuable plant for the front of the border, or a small garden. The small, toothed leaves emit a blackcurrant aroma when brushed or crushed. It requires a sunny, well-drained position in the garden, and will tolerate periods of drought. This form was selected on a Dutch nursery, and the name ‘Nachtvlinder’ means night moth.