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Herbaceous PerennialSynonym

Salvia hispanica misapplied
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

lavender-leaved sage

A compact woody-based perennial, to 60cm tall and wide, with narrow, grey-green, downy leaves and, in summer, spike-like racemes of violet-blue flowers

Synonyms
Salvia officinalis prostrata
Salvia hispanica misapplied
see moreSalvia officinalis narrow-leaved

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Blue Purple Green Grey Silver
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
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
Spain, S France

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Needs a sheltered position but usually overwinters if given full sun and good drainage. Drought tolerant

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings or semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wall side borders
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back spent flower spikes to prolong flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots

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