Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' | 1.3 Litre Pot | Blue Purple Flower

Price range: £3.26 through £3.96

Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ is a stunning herbaceous perennial featuring vibrant violet-blue flowers on dark, rigid stems. It blooms profusely from early summer to autumn, attracting bees and butterflies. A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant for dynamic garden displays.

141 in stock

£3.96
3 – 9 pieces
£3.73 (6% off)
10 – 24 pieces
£3.26 (18% off)
25+ pieces
3
Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna'
£11.88

Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ is a superb herbaceous perennial, loved for its intense purple-black stems and vibrant violet-blue flowers.

This striking cultivar, often called Salvia ‘Caradonna’, adds sophisticated colour to UK gardens from early summer. Its upright, architectural spires make a stunning visual impact, a favourite for reliable, long-lasting blooms. This plant’s elegant form and prolific flowering ensure a dynamic display, consistently attracting beneficial insects throughout its season.

Key Features of Salvia ‘Caradonna’

  • Vibrant violet-blue flowers on dark, rigid stems.
  • Long flowering season, early summer into autumn.
  • Attracts bees and butterflies, boosting garden biodiversity.
  • Low maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.
  • Ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and informal schemes.
  • Known for its robust, upright growth habit.

About Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’

Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ is a superb herbaceous perennial, a form of Balkan clary. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which includes many aromatic plants. This cultivar truly stands out. It boasts unique, almost black, upright flower stems contrasting beautifully with deep violet-blue flowers. Its lance-shaped, grey-green leaves are slightly aromatic when brushed. This combination provides a sophisticated appearance, adding structure and colour to any garden setting.

Understanding the Name

The genus name ‘Salvia’ comes from Latin ‘salvere’, meaning ‘to heal’, reflecting historical medicinal uses. ‘Nemorosa’ means ‘of woods or groves’, hinting at its natural habitat. The cultivar ‘Caradonna’ specifically identifies this celebrated variety. This name highlights its distinct characteristics.

Bloom and Foliage Details

Salvia ‘Caradonna’ blooms vibrantly from June through to October in UK gardens. Its flower spikes are densely packed with small, tubular flowers, creating a rich tapestry of colour. Even after flowers fade, dark calyces often remain, providing extended interest. The foliage offers a subtle grey-green backdrop, complementing the intense floral display. Moreover, this plant often provides a second flush of flowers if deadheaded after the initial bloom.

Garden Placement and Pruning for Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’

This splendid plant shines in mixed borders, gravel gardens, or prairie-style plantings. Its upright habit makes it excellent for adding vertical emphasis and structure. Gardeners often choose Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ to edge pathways or define garden zones. To encourage repeat flowering, simply cut back spent flower spikes. A harder prune in late autumn or early spring rejuvenates the plant, promoting strong new growth.

Wildlife Friendliness

Salvia ‘Caradonna’ is a magnet for local wildlife. Bees, especially bumblebees, adore its nectar-rich flowers. Butterflies also visit frequently, adding movement and life to the garden. Planting this salvia helps support vital pollinator populations, contributing to a healthier ecosystem. Thus, it is an excellent choice for any wildlife-friendly garden.

Max Height 0.60 at maturity
Max Spread 0.50 at maturity
Growth Rate Average
Average growth
Position
Full Sun Partial Sun
Soil Type
Loam Chalk Sandy Clay
H6 H6 – Hardy in severe conditions

Very hardy. Tolerates temperatures typical of a continental winter.

−25°C +15°C
Typical minimum: -20°C to -15°C

Care Notes

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Water regularly until established, then it becomes drought-tolerant. Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage a second flush of blooms. Cut back hard in late autumn or early spring to promote vigorous new growth and maintain plant vigour. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.