Salvia przewalskii

Commonly found in several regions of China, Salvia przewalskii is a very hardy perennial which flowers during the summer months. The flowers are maroon/purple, and large. Colour variations can often be found. Long inflorescences appear over a large clump of basal leaves, which can be up to 12 inches long. It can be grown in full sun or part shade. Regular watering in summer, and well-drained soil are needed. It is dormant in winter. Seeds are produced, but to ensure it does not hybridise with similar species, it can be propagated by division. There is a new form called Salvia przewalskii var. mandarinorum, which I have not seen.