Species
Salvia guaraniticaAnise-scented Sage4 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
A perennial with striking blue flowers and black calyxes.
Notable for its vibrant color contrast and ability to attract hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells.
- Provide full sun for vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth and remove dead stems.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently, especially during dry periods 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not prune in late fall or winter
- Keep in shaded areas, as it prefers full sun
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
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
Black and Blue Salvia questions
What zones can Black and Blue Salvia grow in?
Black and Blue Salvia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Black and Blue Salvia deer resistant?
Yes — Black and Blue Salvia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black and Blue Salvia bloom?
Black and Blue Salvia typically blooms in mid-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 Black and Blue Salvia need full sun?
Black and Blue Salvia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Black and Blue Salvia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Black and Blue Salvia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Salvia to compare
May Night Sage
Salvia nemorosa 'May Night'
Celestial Blue Sage Wood Sage
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 nemorosa 'Rose Marvel'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Black and Blue Salvia 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.