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

• Position: full sun
• Soil: light, moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Slender spires of intense violet-blue flowers from July to September above clumps of wrinkled, mid-green leaves. This 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.
  
  
• Garden care: To prolong flowering remove the flower spikes as soon as they start to fade. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in spring.