Gentian Sage 'Cambridge Blue' (Salvia patens 'Cambridge Blue')

Overview

Salvia patens 'Cambridge Blue' is a classic cultivar of Gentian Sage (Spreading Blue Sage) renowned for its large, exquisite, true gentian-blue flowers. The blooms are two-lipped and held on upright stems above a basal rosette of mid-green leaves. Flowers from midsummer to frost.

Taxonomy

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Genus: Salvia
• Species: patens
• Cultivar: 'Cambridge Blue'

Culture

Full sun to part shade, rich, moist but well-drained soil. Grows 18–24 inches tall. Tender perennial (zones 8–10); often grown as annual or tubers lifted and stored. Excellent for containers, borders, and cutting gardens. One of the bluest flowers in cultivation.