Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ in the dry garden this year.

I have always loved this quote from Hans Christian Andersen

“Just living is not enough,” said the butterfly, “one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.”  

And my hope for this New Year is to not forget to dream a little as well, and my wish for old and new friends is that they too may see dreams become real (with a little or a lot of hard work too!).

This Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ or as it is known in Europe as Meadow sage (confusingly because it is one of the best salvias), has just flowered wonderfully this year despite the heat. It is the perfect perennial for Melbourne gardens as it keeps it rich violet purple colour all season long and should flower into late autumn when I shall cut it back and put it to bed for the winter.