About
Salvia patens, the gentian sage, is a herbaceous perennial to 1 m with ovate to triangular leaves to 20 cm long and large, open panicles of the most intensely blue, two-lipped flowers 5 cm long. One of the finest blue-flowered perennials for a sunny, well-drained border or large container.
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
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens, Wildlife gardens, Patio and container plants
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow in light, moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Best in full sun but can tolerate light partial shade. See our video How to care for tender salvia for more advice
PruningCut back flower spikes as they fade to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in pots or by overwintering tubers in damp potting compost. Propagate by rooting basal cuttings or softwood cuttings in spring or early summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots