Salvia nemorosa 'Pusztaflamme' – Fiery Plum Meadow Sage

Salvia nemorosa 'Pusztaflamme': Intense Plum Spikes for Summer Borders

Salvia nemorosa 'Pusztaflamme' (also known as 'Plumosa') distinguishes itself with fiery plum-pink to purple flower spikes that glow in the summer border. This cultivar brings a warmer, more intense color than the typical blue-violet meadow sages, adding diversity to the salvia palette.

Cultivar Details

• Family: Lamiaceae (lay-mee-AY-see-ee)
• Genus: Salvia (SAL-vee-uh)
• Species: nemorosa (nem-or-OH-suh)
• Cultivar: Pusztaflamme
• Also known as: Plumosa

Growth and Bloom

'Pusztaflamme' forms a compact mound of aromatic gray-green foliage similar to other nemorosa types. The distinction lies in its flower color: dense spikes of rich plum-pink blooms appear in early summer, lasting 6–8 weeks. The color deepens in cooler weather. Deadheading promotes a second flush.

Like its relatives, 'Pusztaflamme' demands full sun and sharp drainage. It tolerates heat, humidity, and drought once established. The plum color combines beautifully with orange, yellow, and blue perennials—try it with butterfly weed, coreopsis, or catmint. Pollinators flock to the nectar-rich flowers. 'Pusztaflamme' expands the meadow sage color range into warmer, more dramatic territory.