Species

Salvia farinaceaMealycup Sage

7 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Unplugged So Blue Salvia

Salvia farinacea 'Unplugged So Blue'

The Story

Plant Bio

Salvia farinacea, commonly known as Mealy Sage, is an evergreen perennial with upright, square stems, aromatic lance-shaped leaves, and spikes of vibrant blue flowers that attract pollinators throughout the summer.

The cultivar 'Unplugged So Blue' is distinguished by its intense, uniform blue flower spikes and a more compact, bushy growth habit, making it ideal for borders and container planting.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid blue flowers add striking color to gardens and containers, attracting pollinators and enhancing visual appeal.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens and busy gardeners.

Supports beneficial insects and pollinators, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.

SpeciesSalvia farinaceaMealycup Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

14 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist during germination, about 2-3 weeks.
Transplant seedlings after last frost into full sun.
Water regularly until established, then drought tolerant.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and full sun for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization which can reduce bloom
Don’t cut back in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright border with aromatic foliagePollinator-friendly garden bedColorful container centerpiece

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Echinacea Salvia nemorosa Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Unplugged So Blue Salvia questions

What zones can Unplugged So Blue Salvia grow in?

Unplugged So Blue Salvia is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Unplugged So Blue Salvia deer resistant?

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

When does Unplugged So Blue Salvia bloom?

Unplugged So Blue Salvia typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Unplugged So Blue Salvia need full sun?

Unplugged So Blue Salvia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Unplugged So Blue Salvia drought tolerant?

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