Sage (Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna') SAL-vee-ah nem-or-OH-sah Genus:  Salvia This drought-tolerant perennial is noted for its vivid indigo flowers along deep purple-black stems, which gives it a bicolor appearance. It blooms in early summer and then sporadically if spent flowers are deadheaded. It forms an upright clump, with the flower spikes rising to 2 feet in height; its wrinkled, softly hairy leaves form a mound 1 foot high. Plants spread 1 or 2 feet wide. These are some of the showiest plants for containers and mixed borders. Butterflies love them.  Care:  Provide moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Propagation:  Divide in spring. 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 Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Fragrant Foliage, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Blue, Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Ground Covers, Naturalizing Style Meadow Garden, Cottage Garden, Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant Type Perennials