SALVIA buchananii Velvet Slipper

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Thought to be of Mexican origin, Salvia buchananii requires protection from hot sun and is best grown in a sheltered sunny spot or in light shade. It will sucker non-incisively to produce a patch up to 50 cm across, and requires moist conditions in summer and free draining soil. It is not frost tolerant but will survive some dryness once established.