Salvia confertiflora: Tropical majesty
The discovery: a Brazilian jewel revealed in the 19th century
Salvia confertiflora was discovered in the lush forests of Brazil and first described by the British botanist George Bentham in the 19th century. Bentham, one of the most influential specialists in the Lamiaceae family, had embarked on a vast enterprise of classifying tropical plants.
In his monumental work Labiatarum Genera et Species published in 1832-1836, Bentham included this fascinating sage, noting its dense and flamboyant inflorescences that seemed to embody the opulence of the Brazilian flora. Salvia confertiflora, by its name derived from confertus (dense, tight), evokes this luxuriant and compact flowering that distinguishes it.

A botanical portrait: a tropical masterpiece
Scientific identification
Scientific name: Salvia confertiflora
Family: Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae)
Origin: Brazil
Morphological description
Size: Between 150 and 200 cm, this sage stands majestically.
Shape: Erect, slender and structured, perfect for adding height to a clump.
Foliage
Color: Dark green, with bronze reflections in the light.
Texture: Soft, slightly downy to the touch.
Shape: Large lanceolate leaves, giving an elegant density to the general shape.
Flowering
Period: From late summer to early autumn.
Inflorescence: Long, densely flowered spikes, with velvety reddish bracts.
Visual appeal: The brick-red tubular flowers rise like flames, creating a spectacular contrast with the neighboring foliage.
Adaptations and ecology
Natural habitat: Humid and warm tropical areas.
Preferred climate: Subtropical to tropical, with sensitivity to frost.
Ecological characteristics: Promotes local biodiversity by attracting bees, butterflies and nectar-eating birds, especially hummingbirds.

Gardener's tip: Exotic elegance
Exposure: Full sun or filtered light, but always sheltered from cold winds.
Soil: Fertile, rich in humus and well-drained.
Care: Prune lightly after flowering to encourage vigorous growth. Apply mulch in winter in cooler regions.
Use: Ideal for structuring exotic beds or bringing a tropical touch to mixed gardens. Its warm tones blend beautifully with grasses or silver-leaved plants.

With its imposing shape and flamboyant spikes, Salvia confertiflora is a true ambassador of tropical richness. Described by George Bentham, it symbolises the fascination of 19th century botanists for the treasures of Brazilian flora. Grow it to bring an exotic and flamboyant touch to your green spaces.