Salvia variana

This Salvia was recently found near San Luis Tultitlanapa, near Oaxaca, in Mexico. It is not hardy, and as it only commences flowering in late autumn, it is best grown in a pot, with winter protection. It can become quite tall...6 ft...and slightly untidy. But the congested inflorescences are very attractive, with pink flowers appearing from furry, grey calyces. Propagate from cuttings, as I doubt if it will set seed here. Photo courtesy of Thierry Guegdes. (The long leaves at the top of the picture are from another Salvia.)