Salvia pratensis
perennial

Meadow Sage

Salvia pratensis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Salvia pratensis, commonly known as Meadow Clary, is a hardy perennial with upright stems and lance-shaped leaves, producing spikes of violet-blue flowers that attract pollinators in summer. This species is valued for its drought tolerance and long-lasting floral display, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic and wildlife-friendly gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVibrant blue flowers attract pollinators and add color to gardens.
Practical UsesLow water needs make it ideal for xeriscaping.
Ecological BenefitsSupports beneficial insects and native pollinators.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
  3. Provide full sun for optimal flowering.
  4. Thin seedlings to promote healthy growth after germination.
  5. Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune back after flowering to encourage bushiness
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues ❌
  • Don’t cut back in late fall, wait until early spring
  • Refrain from fertilizing in late summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower meadow borderScented perennial bedDrought-tolerant planting scheme

Companion Plants

Echinacea Lavender Yarrow Coreopsis Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Meadow Sage questions

What zones can Meadow Sage grow in?

Meadow 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 Meadow Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Meadow Sage bloom?

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

Does Meadow Sage need full sun?

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

Is Meadow Sage drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Meadow Sage with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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