Salvias
--Attract hummingbirds
--Provide nectar for butterflies
--Possess aromatic foliage
--Disease and pest resistant
--Drought tolerant and easy to grow

No other plant blooms as continuously in our garden as Salvia guarantica ‘Black and Blue’. Commonly known as anise sage, this perennial has been flowering since early June attracting the attention of bees, butterflies and our resident hummingbird family. The brilliant, indigo colored flowers are unique in that they emerge from a protective shell called a calyx which is the deepest shade of midnight blue you can find on the planet. The abundant flowers are set on a background of aromatic, bright green leaves and the contrast of colors provides a vivid display throughout our growing season. Only killing frosts will put an end to the floral display. Salvias, in general, come in a variety of colors and thrive where the ground is warm and they can bake in the sunlight. All are suitable for container culture too. Once established, they are drought tolerant but require good drainage to insure their winter hardiness. Some salvias develop woody stems that remain above ground during winter, but ‘Black and Blue’ grows to 3 feet tall and behaves as an herbaceous perennial by dying back to the ground in winter. Its’ vigorous return every spring surprises us because it is supposedly marginally hardy in our area.

--Lenny Wilson, Horticulture and Facilities Manager, Delaware Center for Horticulture