Salvia nemorosa 'Rose Marvel' is a compact long blooming perennial salvia known for its rich rose pink flower spikes that appear earlier than other salvias and continue through summer. Its tidy habit and large flower clusters make it perfect for borders and containers especially in hot dry climates where it thrives with little care.
Height & Spread: 10 - 12 in x 12 - 18 in
Bloom Time: Late spring through summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained, average to dry soil
Watering Needs: Low; water sparingly once established
Deer Resistance: Unpalatable to deer due to aromatic oils in foliage
Native Status
Although not native to North America, Salvia nemorosa cultivars are derived from species native to central Europe and western Asia. They perform exceptionally well in North American gardens when provided with full sun and well drained soil.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Rich nectar attracts honeybees and native bees like bumblebees and sweat bees especially during dry spells.
Butterflies
- Frequently visited by butterflies such as Painted Ladies and Swallowtails for nectar during summer bloom.
Beneficial Insects
- Draws in hoverflies and parasitic wasps that support pest control in mixed plantings.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space plants 12 - 18 in apart for dense floral coverage and airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, container groupings, and dry garden edges where vivid color is desired.
Companion Plants
- Agastache foeniculum 'Blue Fortune' - Tall spires of lavender blue blooms attract pollinators and echo the vertical habit of 'Rose Marvel'.
- Echinacea purpurea 'PowWow White' - Contrasts with white blooms while sharing drought tolerance and sun-loving nature.
- Nepeta faassenii 'Walker's Low' - Soft lavender flowers and aromatic foliage complement the bold color of salvia.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Golden yellow flowers brighten the planting and balance the intense rose tones.
- Festuca glauca 'Elijah Blue' - Cool blue foliage provides contrast and textural grounding for the vibrant flower spikes.