Canary Island sage (Salvia canariensis) Genus:  Salvia This short-lived, tender perennial shrub native to the Canary Islands off the African coast sends up 6-foot white-furred stems cloaked with long, felted, arrow-shaped leaves and topped, summer to frost, with plumes of purplish violet flowers clasped by red-tipped calyxes. It grows up to 4 feet wide. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Salvias are some of the showiest plants for containers, annual borders, and mixed borders. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them.  Care:  Provide moist, well-drained soil and good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Propagation:  Sow seed in spring; divide in spring; take cuttings in spring through autumn. Problems:  Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Self Seeds, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Purple, Red Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Naturalizing, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Shrubs