Salvia buchananii is a herbaceous perennial native to the highlands of Mexico.
The stunning deep magenta flowers produced on stems rising above the leaf base make it a good choice for borders, edges and because of its size containers
Upright stems grow from creeping root stock, in warmer climates these can be left in the ground in frost susceptible area they should be dug up and replanted after the threat of frost has diminished.
The leaves are glossy and mid-green and grow along the stems towards the flower spike. For all of summer and autumn the stems bear spikes of brightly coloured magenta flowers that are slightly hairy. The flowers are typical Saliva flowers with a corolla tube and two lips, in this species the tube is quite long, the upper lip forms a hood and the lower lip broad and spreading.
A useful plant in hot and humid areas as Saliva buchananii will tolerate heat and humidity.
It can also be planted in partially shaded areas as it will tolerate some shade and continue to flower.
The Salvia Wish Collection included several hybrids thought to be a cross between Salvia buchananii and Salvia Splendens. They have magenta flowers and include, 'Love and Wishes', 'Mary's Wish' and 'Embers Wish' Part of the proceeds of each sale go the Make a Wish®Australia Foundaton