Salvia patens
gentian sage
An herbaceous perennial to 1m, with ovate to triangular leaves to 20cm in length, and 2-lipped blue flowers 5cm in length, forming a large, open panicle
Other common names
blue-flowered sagespreading blue sage
Synonyms
Salvia patens 'Royal Blue'Salvia horminum 'Oxford Blue'
see moreSalvia patens 'Oxford Blue'
Salvia patens dark blue
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | Blue | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Salvia can be annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, or shrubs. They have paired, simple or pinnately lobed, often aromatic leaves and 2-lipped flowers in whorls, forming simple or branched spikes or racemes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mexico
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light, moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Best in full sun but can tolerate light partial shade
Propagation
Propagate 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
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- City and courtyard gardens
- Wildlife gardens
- Patio and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Bedding
Pruning
Cut back flower spikes as they fade to prolong flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.