Here’s an annual salvia (splendens) that really shines in the late-summer garden. It’s called ‘Whopper Lighthouse’ from Park Seed. Park describes the plants as growing up to 30″ tall, but the ones in my garden are already at 42″. These salvias are one of the easiest plants to sprout from seed with an almost 100% germination rate. They don’t have any disease or bug problems—even Japanese Beetles have no interest in them.
I like to plant them next to yellows like ‘Indian Summer’ rudbeckia or purples like ‘Perfume Deep Purple’ nicotiana. They do well in full sun, and don’t mind a bit if they are planted in partial shade. When other plants are winding down for the season, ‘Whopper Lighthouse’ gives the garden a much needed pick-me-up. And as you can see, my little hummingbird friend likes them too!