perennial

Sticky Sage

Salvia glutinosa

The Story

Plant Bio

Salvia glutinosa is a robust, clump-forming perennial known for its large, hairy, aromatic leaves and spikes of pale yellow, hooded flowers.

This species is distinguished by its sticky (glutinous) stems and calyces, and its preference for shady, moist conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant purple blooms that attract insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate once established, drought-tolerant

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
Place in full sun for best flowering.
Fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer.
Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

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 dead or damaged stems after flowering
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Neglect pruning which can reduce flowering
Use heavy clay soil without amendment

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Violet perennial borderHerb garden accentDrought-tolerant rock garden

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum Echinacea Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sticky Sage questions

What zones can Sticky Sage grow in?

Sticky Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Sticky Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Sticky Sage bloom?

Sticky Sage 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 Sticky Sage need full sun?

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

Is Sticky Sage drought tolerant?

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