About
Salvia cacaliifolia, the Guatemalan leaf sage, is an erect herbaceous perennial to 90 cm with triangular leaves and large panicles of vivid, deep-blue, two-lipped flowers 2 cm long in early summer. A striking and rewarding sage for a sunny, well-drained border or heated conservatory.
About the genus
Salvia, the sages, are annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials and shrubs with paired, simple or pinnately lobed, often aromatic leaves and two-lipped flowers in whorls forming spikes or racemes. An exceptionally diverse and popular genus for sunny, well-drained borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in peat-free potting compost in full light with shade from hot sun. Grow outdoors in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or dappled shade in a frost-free border. Protect from excessive winter wet. See our video How to care for tender salvia for more advice
PruningCut back spent flower spikes to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in spring or semi-hardwood in late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots