A World of Colour and Variety
The choice of Salvias is wide and varied. They are long-flowering, aromatic, and come in a stunning range of shades—from hot pink, cherry red, and deep purple to softer pastel tones.
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Taller Salvias add drama and height at the back of borders.
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Dwarf varieties are perfect for edging and container planting.
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Patio pots and window boxes also showcase Salvias beautifully, making them versatile additions to any garden.
Did You Know?
Salvias are part of the mint family and are commonly known as Sage. This includes the well-known culinary herb Sage used in cooking.
Indigenous Water-Wise Salvias
South Africa has some remarkable indigenous varieties that are not only beautiful but also water-wise:
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Salvia muirii (Blue Eyes) – with striking blue and white flowers.
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Golden Salvia (Salvia africana-lutea) – showcasing grey foliage and yellow blooms.
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Cleveland Sage – a semi-evergreen shrub with blue flowers and strongly fragranced grey-green foliage.
Show-Stopping Salvias Around the World
Many Salvias have made their way from Mexico and beyond:
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Salvia greggii (Hot Lips) – with delicate white flowers tipped with red, turning fully red in hot sun. Cultivars include Neon Pink and Red Surprise.
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Mexican bush sage (Salvia leucantha) – an evergreen perennial with long sprays of white flowers and silvery-backed leaves, blooming from spring into summer.
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Salvia mystic “Spires Blue” – a compact perennial with vibrant purple-blue flowers.
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Blue Salvia “Victoria” – with showy deep blue flowers lasting from spring through autumn.
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Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans) – a true garden showstopper with vivid red flower spikes and bright green pineapple-scented foliage.
Why Plant Salvias?
Whether you want height, colour, fragrance, or pollinator-friendly blooms, Salvias deliver it all. From indigenous gems to bold international cultivars, there’s a Salvia to suit every garden style.
