Salvia nemorosa ‘Blue by You’

‘Blue by You’ is a relatively new salvia bred for earlier and more vigorous flowering than older meadow sages. Sturdy square stems carry densely packed spikes of electric-blue tubular flowers over mounded clumps of aromatic wrinkled green leaves.

First flush begins about two weeks earlier than most in the group, around May or June, and cutting back spent spikes brings several repeat flushes through summer and into early autumn. Reaches around 50 to 55cm tall and wide.

Plant in full sun in moderately rich, well-drained soil. It tolerates partial shade but flowers best with full sun. Drought-tolerant once settled, very low-maintenance, and a magnet for bees and butterflies.

A firm favourite for a sunny perennial border, a gravel garden, or a pollinator-focused scheme.