Cobalt-blue flowers emerge from near-black calyces on tall anise-scented stems, irresistible to honeyeaters. Vigorous and free-flowering through the warmer months.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 1.5 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Black and Blue Sage
Botanically, Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue' is a fast-growing perennial in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 1.5 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with aromatic and deciduous foliage. Blue flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Black and Blue Sage
Black and Blue Sage suits warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Black and Blue Sage does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Black and Blue Sage is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Black and Blue Sage after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Black and Blue Sage in the garden
Black and Blue Sage earns its place for drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden, feeding bees and pollinators and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Black and Blue Sage with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Black and Blue Sage
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