Salvia splendens 'Ellie'

Salvia ‘Ellie’
Botanical Name: Salvia splendens 'Ellie'

Salvia ‘Ellie’ is a tall upright perennial that grows from 1 to 2 meters high. The ovate, light green leaves are quite large, deeply veined and have a pebble like texture and serrated edges. They look a little like the leaves of old fashioned roses. The flowers are coral pink-red and have a long tubular section and small lip at the end. The bracts are slightly darker, with a brown red tone that seems to deepen as the flowers open. The flower, or corolla, is twice as long as the bracts.

This salvia is one of the many cultivars available from the Salvia splendens parent, which is native to the warm, humid mountainous regions of Brazil. Many of the varieties are grown in great quantities for sale as small annual plants in the northern hemisphere. This practice has transferred to elsewhere in the world. However, they are actually classed as tender perennials and may be called ‘Scarlet Sage’ or ‘Tropical Sage’. The very tall wild form was first described in 1822 but is rarely seen today. Instead most varieties are dwarf versions and there is a range of sizes from small to tall growing plants.

The salvia family has over 900 members with an extensive history as culinary, medicinal and ornamental plants. Ornamental salvias have become collectors items, as gardeners try to find a place in their garden for each and every one. There are salvias that will suit every type of soil and climate. More information on the Salvia genus and Common Sage (Salvia officinalis) may be found on our Common Sage page.

Growing Conditions

Salvia ‘Ellie’ is not well described, but like most S. splendens varieties it should do well in full sun to part shade. However, given that this is a plant from warm, moist and humid forested areas it will be unlikely to tolerate dry or cold conditions well. Moist, well drained soil with protection from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions will provide a good growing environment.