Mealycup Sage (Salvia farinacea): Long-Blooming Blue Spikes for Borders

Mealycup Sage: Reliable Perennial with Lavender-Blue Spikes All Season

Salvia farinacea forms a shrubby upright clump 2 feet tall by 1 foot wide, with white-mealy stems and glossy green leaves. It bears deep lavender-blue flowers on tall spikes from early summer to frost. One of the most dependable salvias for containers, borders, and annual bedding, it attracts butterflies and hummingbirds nonstop.

Why It's a Garden Workhorse

• Blooms early summer to frost
• Lavender-blue spikes on mealy-white stems
• Glossy green foliage
• Tolerates full sun to part shade
• Native to Texas and Mexico
• Excellent container plant

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Moist but well-drained
• Water: Medium moisture
• Indoor Care: Full light with shade from hot sun; water sparingly in winter
• Maintenance: Low

Propagation

Sow seed or divide in spring; take cuttings spring through fall.

Potential Problems

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

Quick Reference

Height:	1–3 ft.
Spread:	6–12 in.
Bloom Time:	Early summer to frost
Flower Color:	Blue, purple
Native:	Yes (Texas, Mexico)
Uses:	Borders, containers, cut flowers, groundcover, indoor, annual bedding