Azure Sage
Salvia azurea 'Nekan'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
48 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Prefers dry conditions
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Salvia azurea is a perennial distinguished by its upright growth habit, slender stems, narrow green leaves, and striking spikes of azure-blue flowers that bloom from late summer to fall. Selected for its superior winter hardiness and more compact, upright habit, 'Nekan' features intense sky-blue flowers and is excellent for xeriscaping and prairie-style plantings.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water lightly until established, about 2-3 weeks.
- Place in full sun for best flowering results.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness.
- Mulch around base 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 sparingly once established 💧
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape ✂️
- Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Skip pruning, which can lead to leggy growth ❌
- Use heavy or poorly-draining soil ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Azure Sage questions
What zones can Azure Sage grow in?
Azure 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 Azure Sage deer resistant?
Yes — Azure Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Azure Sage bloom?
Azure Sage typically blooms in late summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Azure Sage need full sun?
Azure Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Azure Sage drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Azure Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Salvia to compare
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Salvia nemorosa 'Celestial Blue'
Marcus Woodland Sage
Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus'
White Profusion Salvia
Salvia x hybrida 'White Profusion'
Lyrical Blues Salvia
Salvia x hybrida 'Lyrical Blues'
Rose Marvel Sage
Salvia nemerosa 'Rose Marvel'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Azure 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.
