gardenfish said:
...Now about salvias, we can and do grow many different ones here; the ones that seem to do the best are the microphyllas, do they do well in dry conditions? I have a hot lips that is huge; I whack it back twice a year, but I find it to likes to be watered on a regular basis. Agastaches do rather meh here, perhaps they need hotter and dryer? I'm really sorry I messed up your name! Thanks for all your help, I'll do some more research.
Lynda, There are some hardy salvias that do well in dry conditions, although I'm not sure how well they tolerate humidity. I recommend checking out the High Country Gardens website. They specialize in xeric plants, and although their focus is the southwest, I notice reviews from people all over the country. They're good about giving honest advice. As for agastaches, I've struggled with several of them here to find the perfect balance of light and shade. Some definitely struggle in full sun. I'm also in zone 7b, but entirely different climate.
Penstemmon pinifolius might work well in a rock garden. Check it out at High Country Gardens and then you can browse from there. I have abused mine by moving it several times over the years (bad mom!) but it keeps going with minimal care.
https://www.highcountrygardens...
