Salvia Native

Scarlet Sage Salvia

Salvia is a garden favorite prized for its vivid flower spikes, aromatic foliage, and exceptional pollinator appeal. Blooming from late spring through summer, and often reblooming into fall, Salvia produces upright spikes of blue, purple, pink, red, or white flowers that add strong vertical interest to garden beds and borders. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are drawn to its nectar-rich blooms, making it a must-have for wildlife-friendly landscapes.

This hardy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, offering reliable performance with minimal maintenance. Many of its varieties are drought-tolerant once established and resistant to deer and rabbits. With its tidy growth habit and long flowering season, Salvia works beautifully in cottage gardens, mixed borders, and modern landscape designs alike. It also pairs well with ornamental grasses and other sun-loving perennials, creating colorful, dynamic plantings.

Care Instructions

Planting:
Plant it in full sun for best flowering and compact growth. Space plants 18–24 inches apart, depending on variety, to ensure good airflow.

Watering:
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, Salvia prefers moderate moisture and tolerates dry conditions.

Pruning:
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage repeat flowering. Cut back plants by one-third after the main bloom flush to promote fresh growth and reblooming.

Pest Control:
Salvia is generally pest-resistant. Occasional aphids or spider mites may appear but rarely cause serious damage.

Soil Tips:
Prefers well-drained soil of average fertility. Avoid heavy or overly rich soils, which can lead to floppy growth. Adding compost improves soil structure and drainage.