Salvia 'Marcus'

Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus': Petite Powerhouse of Purple

Small in stature but big on impact, Salvia 'Marcus' offers dense spikes of rich violet-blue flowers on a compact, well-branched mound of aromatic foliage. Blooming in late spring and often reblooming with a light trim, it brings long-lasting colour to the front of borders, rock gardens, and containers. Its diminutive size makes it especially useful in tight spaces, where it punches above its weight with saturated colour and reliable performance. Bees and butterflies are drawn to its nectar-rich blooms, while its tidy form adds polish to any planting.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 20–25 cm
• Spread: 25–30 cm
• Flower Colour: Violet-blue
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer, with potential rebloom
• Foliage: Deep green, aromatic, and finely textured
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to sandy soil

Uses and Benefits: Perfect for edging paths, tucking into crevices, or filling small containers, 'Marcus' delivers strong seasonal colour with minimal maintenance. Its low, mounded form makes it an ideal candidate for formal borders or minimalist plantings, while still bringing the pollinator activity and drought tolerance characteristic of all salvias. A true gem for small-scale design.

Companion Plants: Pair Salvia 'Marcus' with the lemony-yellow plumes of Achillea 'Sassy Summer Lemon', the airy, cool textures of Deschampsia cespitosa, and the soft mounds of Nepeta 'Kitten Around' for a fresh, vibrant combination that thrives in sun and brings contrast in colour and form.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Water during establishment, then reduce frequency—this plant is drought tolerant once mature. Trim lightly after the first bloom cycle to encourage a second flush. Cut back fully in early spring and divide clumps every few years for best results.

History: 'Marcus' is a dwarf selection of Salvia nemorosa, valued for its compact size, saturated flower colour, and suitability for small-scale or high-traffic plantings. It has become a popular choice for tight spaces and tidy designs.

Final Thoughts: Compact and colourful, Salvia 'Marcus' is a versatile little powerhouse that delivers lasting bloom, structure, and pollinator appeal without taking up much room. A smart choice for refined spaces and vibrant edging.