Meadow sage (Salvia  × sylvestris 'May Night') SAL-vee-ah ex sil-VES-tris Synonyms:  Salvia nemorosa 'May Night' Genus:  Salvia

This drought-tolerant perennial bears deep violet-blue flower spikes in early summer and then sporadically if spent flowers are removed promptly. It forms an erect clump 2.5 feet tall by 1.5 feet wide, with wrinkled, soft hairy leaves.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

These are some of the showiest plants for containers, edging, and mixed borders. Butterflies love them. 'May Night' was the 1997 Perennial Plant of the Year.

Care: 

Provide moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.

Propagation: 

Divide in early spring, and pamper newly divided clumps. Take cuttings spring through fall.

Problems: 

Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Foliage, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Summer Flower Color Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Ground Covers Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden, Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant Type Perennials