Salvia verticillata
Height x Spread: 100cm x 50cm
An aromatic, herbaceous perennial that forms bushy clumps of green leaves and has stems of violet blue flowers in summer. Massively attractive to bees in particular, this plant needs to be in free draining soil of any pH and in full sun, so is well suited to gravel, coastal and cottage garden schemes.
Hardy down to -15 degrees C it does, however, need to be placed away from cold, drying winds and prolonged winter wet.
Clary sage, as it is sometimes known, is the source of the aromatic oil of the same name, so this scented perennial can be placed in pots on the patio or close to windows and doors to good effect.