Salvia darcyi (large form)

A splendid Mexican salvia discovered around 1990, this is becoming more well-known in the UK. It has also been known as S. oresbia. It will grow up to 5ft. x 3ft. here and makes a great partner to a blue salvia such as 'Indigo Spires'. Happy in full sun or partial shade, it is hardy to about -6 degrees, resprouting in May. It will flower from July until frost, but earlier-flowering specimens can be obtained by over-wintering cuttings indoors. It occasionally sets seed, which can result in slight variations in the brightness of the red flowers, and also their size. Somewhat brittle, support is helpful. The foliage is very sticky, so care must be taken when it is grown in close proximity to other plants.