Black and Blue Sage

Black and Blue Sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue')

Black and Blue Sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue') is a striking perennial known for its deep cobalt-blue flowers and contrasting black calyces. This heat-tolerant and pollinator-friendly plant brings bold color and dynamic movement to garden beds, borders, and containers.

Distinctive Features

Black and Blue Sage is prized for its rich blue tubular flowers that bloom from summer through fall. The dark, almost black calyces create a stunning contrast, making the blooms stand out. Its lush green foliage is fragrant when crushed, and its vigorous, clump-forming habit ensures a strong presence in the garden. This variety is particularly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Thrives in well-draining, fertile soil.
• Water: Requires regular watering; prefers consistent moisture but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
• Humidity: Tolerates a wide range of humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7-10.

Ideal Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
• Garden Borders & Beds: Adds height, color, and movement.
• Containers & Patio Gardens: Thrives in pots for an eye-catching display.
• Cottage & Wildlife Gardens: Complements mixed plantings with its long-blooming flowers.

Low Maintenance Care

Black and Blue Sage is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care beyond occasional pruning and watering.

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
• Pruning: Cut back spent stems to encourage continuous flowering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and midsummer for best performance.
• Propagation: Easily propagated by division or cuttings.

Why Choose Black and Blue Sage?

With its vivid flowers, pollinator appeal, and easy-care nature, Black and Blue Sage is an excellent choice for a variety of garden settings.

• Striking Color Contrast: Deep blue flowers with black calyces create a dramatic display.
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
• Long Blooming Season: Provides continuous color from summer through fall.
• Drought-Tolerant: Once established, requires minimal watering.
• Versatile Placement: Ideal for borders, containers, and wildlife gardens.

For those looking to add a dramatic, pollinator-friendly plant to their garden, Black and Blue Sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue') is a fantastic choice.