Species

Salvia nemorosaWood Sage Meadow Sage

8 other cultivars

perennial

Ostfriesland Sage

Salvia nemorosa 'Ostfriesland'

Same species

Species

Salvia nemorosaWood Sage Meadow Sage

8 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Average; drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact perennial with dense spikes of purple flowers, attractive to pollinators. The 'Ostfriesland' cultivar is known for its particularly vibrant and abundant flowering.

Uses & Benefits:

Salvia nemorosa 'Ostfriesland' provides vibrant blue spikes, attracting pollinators and enhancing flower beds with its compact form.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise gardens, requiring minimal watering once established.

Supports bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting pollinator health and biodiversity.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and roots in 4-6 weeks.
Water deeply once a week during dry periods.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for healthy growth.
Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth in early summer.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun for best flowering and drought tolerance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water moderately, avoiding overwatering 🌱
Prune after flowering to shape the plant
Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer
Provide good air circulation to prevent fungal issues
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Refrain from using heavy soils that retain water
Avoid excessive fertilizing which can promote leaf growth over flowers
Don’t forget to deadhead spent flowers

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderHerb garden accentDrought-tolerant perennial bed

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Yarrow Echinacea Salvia nemorosa 'May Night'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ostfriesland Sage questions

What zones can Ostfriesland Sage grow in?

Ostfriesland Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ostfriesland Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Ostfriesland Sage bloom?

Ostfriesland 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 Ostfriesland Sage need full sun?

Ostfriesland Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Ostfriesland Sage drought tolerant?

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