
Salvia ‘Lake Flamingo’ is a vibrant, long-flowering perennial that blooms with striking violet pink tubular flowers from early summer to autumn, attracting bees and butterflies. This bushy plant features aromatic grey-green leaves and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil, making it ideal for borders, rockeries, or containers. While drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from occasional watering during dry spells though potted plants will need consistent moisture and checks. Its vigorous growth and numerous side shoots ensure a reliable display of colour throughout the season.
How to care for Salvia Lake Flamingo ('Tl1019') (Salgoon Series):
When planting, incorporate compost to improve drainage and fertility, spacing plants 30-45cm (12-18in) apart and watering thoroughly. To keep the plant blooming throughout the season, promptly remove flower spikes as soon as they begin to fade - this deadheading encourages the plant to produce more flowers rather than putting energy into seed production. In early spring, apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide essential nutrients as it breaks down. Ensure the mulch is spread evenly, but keep it away from the stems to prevent rot. Regular watering, particularly in dry spells, will help maintain healthy growth, but be careful not to waterlog the soil, as this salvia prefers well-drained conditions. Finally, consider providing some protection in exposed or colder regions of the UK by covering with a double layer of horticultural fleece or dry mulch (bark chippings/composted pine needles) to insulate the roots, or by using a cloche to protect the plant against hard frosts.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.55m
Eventual spread:
0.4m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
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This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.