perennial

Allen Chickering sage

Salvia alloha 'Allen Chickering'

The Story

Plant Bio

A fast-growing, evergreen shrub with aromatic, grey-green foliage and long, arching stems.

Produces stunning whorls of lavender-purple flowers on tall spikes in late spring. It is exceptionally drought tolerant once established and prized for its intense fragrance.

Uses & Benefits:

Salvia alloha Allen Chickering offers vibrant blue flowers that attract pollinators, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise gardens.

Provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

54 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Native to North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Late summer

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Ensure the plant receives full sun for optimal growth.
Water regularly but avoid waterlogging, especially in winter.
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growing season.
Divide mature plants every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
Fertilize in spring and mid-summer

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Do not neglect pruning
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderHerb garden centerpieceFragrant hedge

Companion Plants

Lavender Rosemary Salvia nemorosaThyme Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Allen Chickering sage questions

What zones can Allen Chickering sage grow in?

Allen Chickering sage 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 Allen Chickering sage deer resistant?

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

When does Allen Chickering sage bloom?

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

Does Allen Chickering sage need full sun?

Allen Chickering sage does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Allen Chickering sage drought tolerant?

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