Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ 2ltr

Salvia ‘Caradonna’ is a true garden favourite—and once you’ve seen it in flower, you’ll know why. It forms neat clumps of fresh green foliage and then sends up masses of tall, slender flower spikes in rich violet-purple, held on striking near-black stems. The contrast is stunning and instantly adds structure and a modern “designer border” feel, whether you’re planting in a cottage garden, a wildlife border, or a more contemporary scheme.

It’s also a brilliant performer: long-flowering, pollinator-friendly, and drought tolerant once established. Deadhead after the first flush and it will often reward you with repeat flowering well into late summer. Plus, the aromatic foliage helps make it less tempting to browsing pests.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant in spring or autumn, while the soil is moist and workable.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Salvias thrive in free-draining ground and are drought tolerant once established. Ideal for mixed borders, prairie-style planting, gravel gardens, pots and containers, and wildlife-friendly gardens.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant so the top of the compost is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 30–40 cm (12–16 inches) apart for good air circulation and a fuller clump.
• Soil Prep: Avoid over-fertile soil—add horticultural grit if drainage is poor. A small amount of garden compost helps establishment.

Watering:
Water well after planting. Keep watering during the first few weeks while the plant establishes. Once established, Salvia is low-maintenance and drought tolerant, needing only occasional watering during prolonged dry spells (especially in pots).

Aftercare Tips:

• Deadhead or cut back flower spikes after the first flush to encourage repeat flowering.
• Cut back the whole plant in late autumn or early spring to keep it neat and promote fresh growth.
• Divide clumps every 3–4 years in spring if they become congested.

Top Tip:
Salvia ‘Caradonna’ looks amazing planted in drifts and paired with ornamental grasses, Achillea, Echinacea and Nepeta. The dark stems make pale pinks, whites and silvery foliage really stand out.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

June - September (often longer with deadheading)

Height:
24–30" (60–75cm)

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial