
This shrubby perennial captivates with its exquisite floral display and aromatic foliage. 'Oriental Dove' boasts an upright, bushy habit adorned with vibrant lilac purple blooms featuring distinctive white-fringed lower lips that seem to glow against the fresh green leaves. Flowering from midsummer through autumn, it bridges the August gap when earlier perennials fade and autumn bloomers have yet to shine. Its nectar-rich blossoms attract bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. While hardy in most regions, protection may be needed during severe or prolonged winter frosts though it will tolerate cold providing the ground is freely draining. Ideal for both containers and borders, this salvia combines beautifully with complementary hues like oranges, limes, blues, and deep pinks, creating a zesty, eye-catching display.
How to care for Salvia Oriental Dove ('Dysmau') (PBR):
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. Pruning, when required, is generally carried out in mid to late spring by trimming back to 15-30cm above the ground (or previous season's growth in older plants) to encourage new growth. Avoid Avoid cutting into old, woody stems.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.8m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
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.