Andean silver-leaf sage (Salvia discolor) SAL-vee-ah DIS-kul-or Genus:  Salvia This tender perennial from Peru is highly unusual for its dramatic, purple-black flowers and pistachio-green calyces. The flowers appear from late summer to early fall. The drama is heighted by its contrasting silvery leaves and stems, which are densely cloaked in woolly, white hairs. Plants grow to about 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide. This specimen looks great tumbling over the edge of a container. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Salvias are some of the showiest plants for containers, annual borders, and mixed borders. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them.  Care:  Provide moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Salvia discolor is drought resistant. Propagation:  Sow seed, or divide, in spring. Take cuttings from 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 Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Late Summer, Early Fall Flower Color Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Indoor Plant, Naturalizing, Specimen Plant/Focal Point, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Perennials