SALVIA Indigo Spires

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. Indigo spires is a fast growing hybrid variety that mixes well with informal plantings, and particularly with roses. The dark soft green leaves may wilt on hot days if the plant is not protected from strong winds. Best positioned in a sheltered sunny spot in fertile well drained soil, and with mulch applied in summer. Indigo Spires may be cut back hard after flowering to promote new growth. New growth may be affected by frost but the plant is frost tolerant.