Salvia lyrata Purple Knockout

Salvia lyrata 'Purple Knockout' is a curious sage forming a flat rosette of ovate leaves resembling those of Ajuga reptans but slightly longer and wider. Quite early, slender stems appear bearing spike-like clusters of very pale lilac-white flowers.

At least 9 plants per square metre are needed to achieve a dense carpet, but its original colour and compact habit make it a valuable plant. We have planted it along the edge of the pathway in our grass garden, between clumps of Imperata cylindrica 'Red Baron' and in front of Lobelia tupa.