perennial

Marcus Woodland Sage

Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus'

$12.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus' is known for its compact growth and abundant purple flower spikes, attracting pollinators.

This cultivar is particularly noted for its long blooming period and resistance to both drought and deer.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesSalvia nemorosa Marcus offers vibrant violet blooms that attract pollinators, adding color and life to garden borders.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it a low-maintenance choice for water-wise landscapes.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinator populations.
SpeciesSalvia nemorosaWood Sage Meadow Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

10 inches

Width

10 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$12.95
<1 Gal Pot
In Stock$15.95
In Stock$29.49

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sunny location with well-draining soil to plant Salvia nemorosa Marcus.
  2. Tuck seeds or cuttings into the soil, spacing them 12 inches apart for good air circulation.
  3. Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Apply a light mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds during early growth.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy blooms.
  6. Prune back after flowering to encourage bushy growth and repeat blooms.

Pro Tip

Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant
  • Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don’t fertilize excessively, which can reduce flowering
  • Never prune in late fall or winter ❌
  • Avoid planting in shady areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Divide
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant perennial bedFragrant rock garden accent

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Marcus Woodland Sage questions

What zones can Marcus Woodland Sage grow in?

Marcus Woodland Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Marcus Woodland Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Marcus Woodland Sage bloom?

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

Does Marcus Woodland Sage need full sun?

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

Is Marcus Woodland Sage drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Marcus Woodland 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.