Salvia candelabrum: A sculptural sage from southern Spain
The discovery: A treasure from southern Spain
Salvia candelabrum, native to southern Spain, takes its name from its characteristic candelabra-shaped shape, creating an elegant and unique silhouette in gardens. It was first described by the Spanish botanist Luis A. S. Romero, in the early 20th century, as part of his work on Mediterranean flora. Although uncommon, this sage is a rare wonder that is rarely found in nurseries, often confused with Salvia interrupta, a related species with different foliage and hardiness.

A botanical portrait: A unique form and delicate flowering
Scientific identification
Scientific name: Salvia candelabrum
Family: Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae)
Origin: Southern Spain, especially in the rocky and dry areas of the Mediterranean region.
Morphological description
Size:
Height: Up to 1 meter
Width: Medium, with an upright bushy habit.
Shape: A graceful and upright habit, resembling a candelabra, which gives it a unique sculptural appearance.
Foliage:
Shape: Lanceolate, narrow and gray-green leaves.
Color: Gray-green, with a slightly downy texture.
Evergreen: Semi-evergreen foliage, which can be slightly altered in winter depending on climatic conditions.
Flowering
Period: From summer to autumn.
Flowers:
Color: Light mauve, marked with white at the base of the flowers.
Shape: Tubular flowers, forming long spikes, creating a bright and elegant effect.
Inflorescences: Organized in long clusters, emerging from the top of the stems.
Particularity: The flowers, although similar to those of Salvia interrupta, are distinguished by their shape and particular arrangement.
Adaptations and ecology
Natural habitat: Rocky areas, well-drained soil, often at high altitudes in Mediterranean regions.
Hardiness: Can withstand temperatures down to -10°C if grown in well-drained soil and protected from excessive moisture.
Soil requirements: Prefers light, dry, well-drained soil, ideally low in organic matter, which reflects its natural habitat in rocky areas.

Horticultural uses and prospects
Use
Perfect for Mediterranean gardens, rockeries, and dry or scrubland gardens.
Ideal as an isolated plant or in small groups, it is particularly decorative due to its particular shape and elegant flowering.
Ornamental value
This sage is distinguished by its original candelabra-shaped shape, a major visual asset in garden compositions.
Its purple and white blooms are a delicate touch of colour that brightens up spaces in the heart of summer, perfect for flowerbeds or path edges.

Gardener's tip: Growing Salvia candelabrum successfully
Exposure: Prefers exposure to full sun, typical of Mediterranean plants.
Soil: Make sure to provide well-drained and dry soil, rather poor. Soil that is too rich in organic matter or poorly drained can cause root rot.
Maintenance:
Light pruning in spring to encourage branching.
During the flowering period, it is best to limit watering to avoid excess moisture around the roots.
Wintering: If you are in a colder area than its hardiness allows, protect the plant from frost or grow it in a pot so that you can bring it inside in winter to a cool, bright place.

A rare jewel for the garden
Salvia candelabrum is a rare but precious plant for lovers of sages and Mediterranean plants. Its unique shape and delicate flowering make it an exceptional addition to a sunny and dry garden. Once established and well maintained, it turns out to be a real plant jewel, attracting attention throughout the summer thanks to its flowers in mauve and white hues. A growing challenge that is worth it, especially for lovers of Mediterranean plants looking for rarity and elegance.