Salvia

Salvias are a large group including annuals, biennials, perennials, shrubs. Perennial salvias are midsummer border mainstays. Also called sage.

About This Plant

Relative of kitchen sage. Flowering salvias produce spikes of small, densely packed flowers atop aromatic foliage. Heat- and drought-tolerant, blooming early to late summer in blue, violet, red, pink, white. Heights 18 inches to 5 feet. Hardiness varies—choose carefully for your region.

Special Features

• Easy care / low maintenance
• Good for cut flowers
• Attracts hummingbirds
• Tolerates dry soil

Site Selection

Full sun, very well-drained soil.

Planting Instructions

Spring, space 1–3 feet. Loosen soil 12–15 inches, add 2–4 inches compost. Plant at container depth, water thoroughly.

Care

Spring: thin compost + 2-inch mulch. Water if rainfall <1 inch/week. Some types shear after flowering for fall rebloom. After killing frost, cut stems to 1–2 inches. Divide every 3–4 years in spring.