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Press, 18 March 1988, Page 18

Salvias really need no introduction: as a genus of 700 species of annuals, perennials and shrubs they are generally well known for their medicinal or culinary uses, in bedding displays and permanent plantings. One of the most popu-

lar of them all, certainly in days gone by, would be sage, S. officinalis, a very variable species including red and variegated forms. Classed as a it is utilised with meats and fish, in cheese making, as a beverage and) as flavouring in a

variety of drinks, and for gargling for sore throats. Salvia splendehs, a perennial of Brazilian origin, is the basis for some of our most widely used annuals, such as Bonfire and Blaze of Fire. However, the South

African coastal growing S. aurea: (pictured) is a shrub which would be. less familiar in the garden. It is a little unusual in appearance with its slightly buckled, ovalshaped grey leaves and large brick-red flowers, typically two lipped.