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Why we like this plant
With its compact size, long flowering season, and easy-care nature, Salvia 'Ostfriesland' is perfect for adding colour and structure to garden borders while supporting pollinators.
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About this plant
Salvia nemorosa 'Ostfriesland' is a reliable, low-maintenance perennial that produces upright spikes of vivid violet-purple flowers, beautifully contrasted by its grey-green, aromatic foliage. With a tidy and compact growth habit, it is perfect for borders, containers, and cottage garden planting schemes. This variety blooms from early summer to autumn, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it an excellent choice for Mediterranean-style and drought-tolerant gardens.
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Key features
- Rich violet-purple flower spikes
- Compact and bushy growth habit
- Long flowering period from early summer to autumn
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
- Drought-tolerant and easy to grow
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Height and
spreadHeight: 40–50cm | Spread: 30–40cm
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Growth
habitCompact, clump-forming
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Moisture
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
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Position in
the GardenBorders, cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, containers
Planting guide
Space plants 30–40cm apart in well-drained soil. Water regularly until established, then reduce watering as it becomes drought-tolerant.
Care tips
Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny position. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong the blooming period. Cut back old stems in early spring to encourage fresh growth. A light feed in spring promotes healthy flowering.
Winter care
Hardy in most UK climates. In colder regions, apply a mulch in autumn to protect the roots from extreme frost. Leaving some spent stems over winter can provide shelter for beneficial insects.