Wild Clary Sage (Salvia verbenaca)

Overview

Salvia verbenaca, known as Wild Clary Sage or Vervain Salvia, is a biennial or short-lived perennial native to Europe, North Africa, and the Near East. It forms a basal rosette of lobed, wrinkled leaves. In late spring to summer, it produces branching spikes of small, pale blue to violet flowers. Naturalizes readily.

Taxonomy

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Genus: Salvia
• Species: verbenaca
• Synonyms: Salvia clandestina, Salvia cleistogama, Salvia controversa, Salvia horminoides, Salvia verbenacea

Cultivation

Full sun to part shade, well-drained soil. Grows 18–30 inches tall. Self-sows freely. Excellent for wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, and naturalized areas. Attracts bees and butterflies.