Species anise-scented sage

anise-scented sage

Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue'

Anise-scented sage (Salvia guaranitica) 'Black and Blue' is a striking garden plant with unique blooms. Its lavender -blue flower spikes appear in summer and autumn, reaching up to 2 feet tall, and emit a strong sweet anise-like aroma. Its bluish-green leaves have a soft velvety texture and can grow up to 4 feet in height and width. 'Black and Blue' is an excellent choice for borders, rockeries, or containers and its fragrant scent attracts bees and hummingbirds. This drought tolerant variety thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and requires very little maintenance. It's perfect for the home gardener looking to add an exotic touch to their outdoor space.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Deep blue with black calyces Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

purple,black

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

watering

Anise-scented sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue') needs water often, but lightly. The best watering schedule is to water every 3 days or so, providing just enough water to evenly moisten the soil. Make sure that the soil is completely dry before adding more water; too much water can damage this plant's sensitive root system. Additionally, only water the base of the plant and avoid getting the foliage wet. During the summer months, the plant may need additional water as needed, as temperatures tend to be higher and the soil can dry out faster.

sunlight

Anise-scented sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue') should receive about 6 to 8 hours of full sun each day for optimal growth and flowering. If possible, locate the plant in a spot that will get plenty of morning sun and some afternoon shade, as more than 8 hours of uninterrupted sun can be too intense for the plant. In warm climates, the plant can survive well in partial or even light dappled shade.

pruning

Anise-scented sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue') should generally be pruned twice a year, once in late winter/early spring and once again in early summer. During the spring pruning cut back plants that have become too dense, removing up to 1 third of the growth, or up to 1-third of the stems and branches can be removed. During the summer prune off any flowers that have bloomed, making sure to remove faded flower stems to encourage re-blooming and deadheading. When cutting back stems and branches never completely denude the plant, as this can be detrimental to the plants health.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map