Hybrid sage (Salvia  × superba) SAL-vee-ah ex soo-PER-bah Synonyms:  S. nemerosa 'Superba' Genus:  Salvia This hybrid of S. nemorosa and S. sylvestris is a drought-tolerant perennial that lends vivid purple-blue hues to the garden from summer to early fall on 1.5- to 3-foot-tall spikes. Deadheading prolongs bloom. The spikes rise from a clump of silvery green leaves that grows to about 2 feet tall and wide. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Salvias 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:  Sow seed, or divide plants, 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 Fall, Summer Flower Color Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Ground Covers, Naturalizing Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden, Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant Type Perennials