6 named cultivars

perennial

Wood Sage

Salvia x sylvestris

The Story

Plant Bio

A hardy, clump-forming perennial sage, a hybrid of S. nemorosa and S. pratensis, prized for its dense spikes of violet-blue flowers and aromatic, gray-green foliage.

Features numerous, upright, branching stems topped with showy spikes of small, two-lipped, violet-blue flowers. Deadheading promotes a longer bloom period. It is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Uses & Benefits:

Salvia x sylvestris offers vibrant, long-lasting flowers that attract pollinators, making it a perfect addition to flower borders and perennial beds.

Its aromatic foliage can be used in herbal preparations and as a natural insect repellent.

Provides essential nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local pollinator populations.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Place in full sun for optimal growth.
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not let soil become waterlogged
Refrain from excessive fertilizing which can weaken the plant

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged border plantFragrant perennial in herb gardenWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Lavender EchinaceaYarrow Sedum Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Wood Sage questions

What zones can Wood Sage grow in?

Wood Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Wood Sage deer resistant?

Yes — Wood Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Wood Sage bloom?

Wood Sage typically blooms in late spring to summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Wood Sage need full sun?

Wood Sage does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Wood Sage drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Wood Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.