Salvia 'Purpurea' is an aromatic, semi-evergreen dwarf shrub with purple young foliage and stems, becoming grey-green; leaves oblong, 3-6cm in length. Purple-blue flowers 2cm in length in terminal racemes. Although it is often used as an unusual coloured herb, it makes an excellent addition to any garden or container in a hot spot where it is usually happiest where it will form a lax bush, but can be kept under control by careful pruning in spring.