Species

Salvia horminumAnnual Clary Sage

1 other cultivar

‘Blue Monday’Annual Clary Sage

annual

Blue Salvia

Salvia horminum 'Blue'

The Story

Plant Bio

An annual salvia with aromatic leaves and vibrant blue flowers.

Known for its long blooming period and ability to thrive in moderate drought conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Salvia horminum 'Blue' provides striking blue flowers that attract pollinators, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-conserving landscapes.

Supports bees and hummingbirds, promoting local biodiversity.

SpeciesSalvia horminumAnnual Clary Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

12 inches

Width

10 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial (may behave as annual in colder zones)

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding, ensuring proper airflow.
Water deeply once a week, allowing soil to dry between watering.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during growing season.
Pinch back early growth to encourage bushier plants.

Pro Tip

Use a sunny spot with well-draining soil for lush, vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
Water when the topsoil feels dry to the touch
Prune dead flowers to promote new blooms
Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during peak season

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t forget to deadhead spent flowers
Refrain from planting in overly shady areas
Don’t prune excessively during dormancy
Avoid using heavy, clay soils that retain water

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pinch

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower border with bright blue bloomsDrought-tolerant herbaceous perennial in rock gardensColorful container display on patios

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Echinacea Gaillardia Salvia nemorosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Salvia questions

What zones can Blue Salvia grow in?

Blue Salvia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blue Salvia deer resistant?

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

When does Blue Salvia bloom?

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

Does Blue Salvia need full sun?

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

Is Blue Salvia drought tolerant?

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