Buy Balkan clary (syn. Salvia East Friesland) Salvia nemorosa 'Ostfriesland'

Salvia nemorosa 'Ostfriesland'

Balkan clary ( Salvia 'East Friesland' )

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Balkan clary ( Salvia 'East Friesland' )

Slender spires of intense violet-blue flowers from July to September above clumps of wrinkled, mid-green leaves.

Salvia nemorosa 'Ostfriesland' is a compact form of salvia is perfect for adding a splash of colour at the front of a well-drained herbaceous border or gravel garden.

Coping well in sun or light dappled shade, the violet-blue blooms are a magnet for butterflies and bees.

How to care for Salvia nemorosa Ostfriesland:

When planting, incorporate compost to improve drainage and fertility, spacing plants 30-45cm (12-18in) apart and watering thoroughly.

To keep the plant blooming throughout the season, promptly remove flower spikes as soon as they begin to fade - this deadheading encourages the plant to produce more flowers rather than putting energy into seed production.

In early spring, apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide essential nutrients as it breaks down. Ensure the mulch is spread evenly, but keep it away from the stems to prevent rot.

Regular watering, particularly in dry spells, will help maintain healthy growth, but be careful not to waterlog the soil, as this salvia prefers well-drained conditions.

Flowering period:

Eventual height:

0.45m

Eventual spread:

0.6m

Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.