Salvia is the largest genus in the Mint family at around 900 species. The flowers of Sage plants attract bees, hummingbirds and butterflies. Most Sages have very aromatic foliage. The genus name Salvia is derived from the Latin term "salvare" which means "to heal" or "to save".
Salvias include annual, biennial and perennial herbs. They are known for the fragrance and showy flowers.
| Plant Types: | Perennial |
| Light: | Partial Shade to Full Sun |
| Height: | 1 foot 4 inches to 1 foot 6 inches |
| Width: | 1 foot to 3 feet |
| Zones: | 5a to 9b |
| Bloom Color: | Blue |
| Bloom Seasons: | Late spring, Early summer |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Attractive foliage, Deer resistant, Fragrant foliage, Not North American native |
| Shape: | Upright or erect |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food |
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Plant sages in areas with good air circulation to prevent mold germination. Sow seeds of annuals in spring (don't allow the average temperature to dip below 60ºF); biennials in containers in summer; and perennials in containers in spring.
Good to harvest before the plant blooms in summer. For the best flavor, cut stems in the morning, after the dew has dried. After cleaning the stems, use them fresh or allow them to dry in a dark, ventilated place and hang them upside down. Once the leaves have dried, crumple them and store in an airtight jar. Will keep for up to 3 years.
Most every sage plant thrives in full sun. Provide low to moderate humidity. Keep the soil around the roots cool. For continual harvest through winter, remove sage from the ground in late fall and pot up in containers.
Flowers are 2-lipped and range in color from white, yellow, salmon, pink, red and scarlet. For continued blooming, deadhead flowers.
Sages require good drainage, especially when they reach the wintertime. Freezes are more lethal when sages are sitting in soggy soils. Prefers rich loam.
Once per month provide a complete and balanced liquid fertilizer to the soil.
Prune in spring. Remove branches that ruin symmetry of the shrub. Otherwise, they need minimal pruning.
Sages are susceptible to mildew and other fungal diseases. Aphids, mealybugs, spider mites and whiteflies.