Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna'

Plant in full sun for the best flowering, in well-drained soil. 'Caradonna' thrives in poor to moderately fertile conditions and dislikes wet, heavy soils. Once established, it’s highly drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.

Deadhead spent flower spikes regularly to encourage a longer flowering period, and shear back the plant after the first flush to promote fresh growth and possible reblooming. In autumn, leave stems standing to provide winter interest and shelter for insects, cutting back fully in early spring.

Caradonna' brings height and contrast to mixed borders, prairie-style plantings, cottage gardens, and gravel gardens. It looks beautiful in large pots or containers, particularly when paired with soft silver foliage plants like Stachys byzantina. It combines naturally with other sun-loving perennials such as Nepeta, Achillea, Echinacea, and Perovskia, helping to create a vibrant, drought-tolerant planting scheme that is alive with pollinators.

Caradonna' also pairs beautifully with Geum 'Totally Tangerine', the deep violet spires weaving effortlessly among the soft, apricot-orange blooms. Together, they create a lively, long-flowering combination that brings energy and warmth to borders and container displays, thriving side by side in sunny, well-drained conditions.

Whether woven through a border or planted in generous drifts, 'Caradonna' provides rhythm, colour, and movement throughout the season.

'Caradonna' is a fast-growing perennial and fully hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -20°C.

It is highly attractive to pollinators, providing a vital nectar source through the summer months.

Generally considered safe for pets, though like many aromatic plants, eating large quantities may cause mild stomach upset.

This outstanding salvia holds the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, reflecting its superb garden performance and reliability.