Salvia carduacea

An attractive annual species, native to Southern California. Unlike some of the perennial Californian species, this is an easy plant to get into flower in the UK. Seed can be sown indoors in March and flowering will commence in June for a six-week period, when the plants can be placed outdoors, though heavy rain can damage the plants. Growing to a height of up to 18in, they make excellent container plants. Full sun and a well-drained gritty soil are essential for this Salvia to perform well. Seed can be collected after flowering ceases, though care must be taken as the seed heads are covered in small, sharp spines, hence its common name of Thistle Sage.