Salvia nemorosa 'Dark Matter' is a striking ornamental sage known for its deep violet purple flower spikes that bloom prolifically from late spring through summer. With a compact upright habit it draws attention in perennial borders and mixed containers while providing long seasonal interest. The aromatic foliage deters browsing and its strong vertical lines contrast well with mounding or sprawling companions.
Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to mid summer
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Well drained soil, tolerates poor soils once established
Watering Needs: Moderate; water during prolonged dry spells
Deer Resistance: Scented foliage makes it unappealing to deer and rabbits
Native Status
Salvia nemorosa is native to central Europe and western Asia. The 'Dark Matter' cultivar was bred for enhanced compactness and flower richness making it suitable for modern ornamental landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Highly attractive to honeybees and native species such as bumblebees and sweat bees which actively forage on the extended bloom spikes.
Butterflies
- Frequented by small to medium sized butterflies including Painted Ladies and Common Buckeyes that sip nectar from its tubular flowers.
Beneficial Insects
- Supports hoverflies, predatory wasps, and other beneficial pollinators that contribute to pest control and garden balance.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space plants 18 - 24 in apart to form a dense mass of vertical blooms without crowding.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and rock gardens. It also thrives in containers and raised beds where structure and color are needed.
Companion Plants
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' - Compact lavender echoes the purple tones and fragrance while thriving in similar soil conditions.
- Achillea millefolium 'Moonshine' - Soft yellow umbels contrast with salvia’s upright form and extend the blooming period.
- Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' - Fine textured foliage and golden flowers fill space between salvias and other upright bloomers.
- Stachys byzantina (Lambs Ear) - Silvery soft foliage at the base of salvia softens borders and accentuates vertical form.
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Large daisy like flowers add bold pink color and provide pollinator variety through the season.