An award-winning sage with deep indigo-violet spikes from near-black buds, flowering early and reblooming if cut back. Compact, cold-hardy and a reliable magnet for bees.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 50 cm H × 45 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About May Night Sage
Botanically, Salvia x sylvestris 'Mainacht' is a moderate-growing perennial in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 50 cm tall and 45 cm wide at maturity, with aromatic and deciduous foliage. Purple and blue flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow May Night Sage
May Night Sage suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is an award-winning selection.
Soil & planting
May Night 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
May Night Sage is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. 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 May Night Sage after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using May Night Sage in the garden
May Night Sage earns its place for feeding bees and pollinators, attracting butterflies, cut flowers for the vase and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair May Night Sage with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and cool-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 May Night Sage
Plant Sale lists May Night Sage as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.