Re: Salvia splendens 'Van Houttii'

I find it strange that this plant seems to be
relatively unknown to several people posting here. 
This hybrid is in no way similar to the other red
flowered species listed, as the two tone
characteristics of the flowers and the abundant bloom
and large size all are qualities that set it apart. 
The flowers have the elegance of form and color of a
Grevillea 'Superba' or G. 'Robyn Gordon', with which
this Salvia combines nicely.  I have also combined
this in shade with the purpled flowered Ageratum
corybosum of purplish foliage and the giant version
known as Bartlettina sordidum, and a giant purple
foliaged Vreisea bromeliad, and lavender flowered
Francoa sonchifolia.  In sunnier spots I have used it
in combination with red and purple Epidendron orchids,
orange colored Stipa arundinaceae, magenta flowered
Calandrinia grandiflora and Isopogon formosus to great
effect.  Unfortunately it is tender to frost,(mine
have bit the dust at only 28F,  and it is tasty to
mollusks, mosre so when small than large. 

The flower colors are so beautiful and quick to bloom
in warm weather that everyone should try it, and it
would also associate nicely with Isoplexus species
which pick up some of the orange/burgundy tints of the
'Van Houttii'.  It has gotten 5 feet tall by across in
some situations by September. I also find that it
blooms as well in shade as in full sun for me here in
Berkeley/Alameda, and can be in bloom nearly all year
long until the heavy rains and cold tend to finsh the
bloom in late December/January.


	
		
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