A nice Lamiaceae at Romeo Romano

[MWP admin]

My attention was caught by this elegant sub-shrub which I pre-assume that it belongs to the Lamiacea (mint) family.

Would be great if you can tell me what it is.

[IL-PINE]

It reminds me of a Bignonia thing but I have no idea about these plants.

[Glimbo]

Hi Stephen,

This might be Salvia microphylla (syn.grahamii) ; or a close relation anyhow. This is an ornamental originating in USA/Mexico and has numerous cultivars.

Evergreen. Bushy. Sub-shrub/small shrub/shrubby perennial. Lvs. ovate/eliptic, soft hairy/smooth 1.5 - 4cm. rounded teeth. Fls. Paired or whorled borne in terminal racemes. Deep crimson/magenta/pink/purple. 2.5cm long. Late summer to Autumn.

Easily prop'd by stem cuttings. Used in Uk for the dreaded 'Summer Bedding', containers etc., in sheltered dryish spots in full sun will last a few years.

See what you think.

A somewhat variable plant to say the least, but I guess that's evolution for you! glimbo[/i]

[MWP admin]

Thank you very much. I confirm the ID as I have identified it as you said some months ago.

It is a purely cultivated/ornamental plant in Malta, often found in public gardens an so far I have never found it naturalised or as a casual alien. I have seen it only at Romeo Romana so far.