How to Grow Black & Blue Salvia
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Black & Blue Salvia
Salvia guaranitica 'Black & Blue'
shrubBlack & Blue is a striking ornamental sage cultivar featuring deep purple-black calyces and brilliant cobalt-blue flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. This semi-woody perennial grows as a tender shrub that can reach 3-4 feet tall and wide. It's prized for its extended blooming season and dramatic color contrast that adds visual interest to gardens from summer through fall.
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Example Black & Blue Salvia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Black & Blue Salvia
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Black & Blue Salvia
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8b-11; can be grown as an annual or container plant in zone 8a and colder zones
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Seedling & Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung plants with simple opposite leaves, 2-4 inches tall; may be slow to establish
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright indirect light. Pinch tips early to encourage branching.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksPlant rapidly develops multiple stems with narrow, lance-shaped, slightly aromatic green leaves; no flowers yet
Pinch growing tips to create bushier form. Apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Ensure full sun exposure. Water regularly.
Budding & Early Bloom
2-3 weeksTerminal spikes develop showing the characteristic black calyces with blue flowers beginning to open from bottom of spike upward
Increase fertilizer frequency to every 2 weeks with bloom-promoting formula (higher phosphorus). Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
Peak Flowering
8-12 weeksMultiple flower spikes in full bloom with vivid contrast between deep purple-black sepals and bright cobalt-blue corollas; flowers attract hummingbirds constantly
Deadhead regularly to extend bloom time. Maintain consistent watering and feeding schedule. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Late Season & Dormancy
6-8 weeks until frostFlowering continues but slows as days shorten and temperatures cool; in zones 8-9, foliage may decline or plant may be cut back for winter
In warmer zones, maintain blooming plant. In cooler zones, cut back to 6-12 inches before frost or grow as annual. Mulch for winter protection in zone 8.
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestation is severe. Ensure adequate humidity.
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Use yellow sticky traps to monitor; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Increase air circulation.
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Remove by hand, especially in evening. Use copper tape barriers around containers. Apply slug bait if necessary.
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Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide if needed; select resistant location with good drainage.
Uses
Hummingbird Magnet
WildlifeBlack & Blue Salvia is exceptionally attractive to hummingbirds, which visit the tubular blue flowers repeatedly throughout the blooming season. The consistent nectar production and extended bloom period make it one of the most reliable hummingbird plants for gardens. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe flowers are edible with a mild, slightly minty flavor and can be used as garnish for beverages, desserts, and salads. The decorative black and blue coloring makes them particularly attractive for plated presentations. [source]
Fresh Cut Arrangements
HouseholdThe striking flower spikes with their dramatic color contrast make excellent cut flowers for floral arrangements and bouquets. Stems can last 7-10 days in water and bring hummingbird activity indoors. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalSalvia guaranitica has been used in South American traditional medicine, and the Black & Blue cultivar shares properties with other culinary sage species. The leaves contain aromatic compounds with potential benefits, though scientific research is limited. [source]
Ornamental Garden Design
CraftThe vivid blue flowers contrasting with black calyces provide exceptional color for pollinator gardens, hummingbird gardens, and cottage garden designs. The tall spikes add vertical interest and texture to mixed plantings. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Black & Blue Salvia is grown as an ornamental; deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Pinch or prune in early spring to shape plant and remove winter damage. Cut stems back in fall in zones 8-9 before first hard frost, leaving 6-12 inches of growth. In warmer zones, light pruning maintains shape. Flowers can be cut for fresh arrangements—they last well in water and continue attracting hummingbirds indoors.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Black & Blue Salvia's striking color combination—deep purple-black calyces with electric cobalt-blue flowers—is relatively rare in the plant kingdom and creates one of the most visually dramatic color contrasts in garden ornamentals.
- 🌱 This cultivar is native to South America (particularly Paraguay and Brazil) and is named 'Black & Blue' specifically for its two-tone coloring; 'guaranitica' references the Guarani people of the region.
- 🌱 Hummingbirds can visit a single Black & Blue plant dozens of times per day during peak flowering season, making it an excellent choice for gardeners interested in attracting and observing these remarkable birds up close.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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