Sumptuous summer colour. Position: full sun Soil: moderatley fertile, moist but well-drained soil Rate of growth: average Flowering period: June to August Hardiness: frost hardy (may need winter protection) Dark plum-purple flowers with a velvety texture bloom from late spring into autumn, attracting bees and other pollinators. This compact, bushy shrub has aromatic mid-green leaves that release a sweet, blackcurrant-like scent when brushed against.
Drought tolerant once established, it thrives in freely draining soil and benefits from a sheltered, sunny position. Regular deadheading encourages continuous flowering, while pruning in spring helps maintain its shape. Salvia ‘Nachtvlinder’, meaning "night moth" in Dutch, is a magnet for wildlife and has earned the RHS Award of Garden Merit for its reliability and performance.
Ideal for borders, containers, or gravel gardens. Garden care: When planting, incorporate compost to improve drainage and fertility, spacing plants 30-45cm (12-18in) apart and watering thoroughly. To keep the plant blooming throughout the season, promptly remove flower spikes as soon as they begin to fade - this deadheading encourages the plant to produce more flowers rather than putting energy into seed production.
In early spring, apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide essential nutrients as it breaks down. Ensure the mulch is spread evenly, but keep it away from the stems to prevent rot. Regular watering, particularly in dry spells, will help maintain healthy growth, but be careful not to waterlog the soil, as this salvia prefers well-drained conditions.