How to Grow Blue Queen
Blue Queen
Salvia guaranitica 'Blue Queen'
shrubBlue Queen is a tender perennial shrub known for its striking deep blue flowers that bloom prolifically throughout the growing season. This cultivar of anise-scented sage produces tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. It grows as a compact, bushy plant typically reaching 3-4 feet in height.
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Example Blue Queen timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Blue Queen
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 Blue Queen
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Blue Queen dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones
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Seedling
2-3 weeksSmall plants with 2-4 true leaves emerge from soil. Delicate green foliage with no flowers yet.
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to prevent crowding. Maintain temperatures around 65-70°F.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops bushy form with multiple stems and lance-shaped green leaves. Leaves are aromatic when brushed, with anise scent.
Pinch growing tips to encourage bushier growth. Maintain consistent watering. Begin light fertilizing every 2 weeks with balanced fertilizer.
Budding & Early Flowering
2-3 weeksFlower spikes form at branch tips. Buds are elongated and begin to swell with deep blue color developing.
Continue regular watering and fertilizing. Increase frequency to weekly feeding with slightly higher phosphorus fertilizer to support blooming.
Peak Flowering
8-16 weeks (or until frost)Plant covered with deep blue tubular flowers arranged on spikes. Continuous blooming throughout season from late spring through frost.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continued blooming. Maintain consistent moisture. Feed weekly with blooming fertilizer. Monitor for pests.
Late Season / Dormancy
Variable; until frost or dormancyFlowering slows as temperatures drop. Plant begins to slow growth and may lose vigor in cold climates.
Reduce watering and feeding as growth slows. In warm zones, light pruning can be done to maintain shape. In cold zones, bring containers indoors or treat as annual.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water jet to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Maintain humidity around plant.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Ensure good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or baking soda spray (1 tbsp per gallon water). Remove infected leaves.
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Spray with isopropyl alcohol on cotton swab for small infestations. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for widespread damage.
Uses
Hummingbird & Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeThe deep blue tubular flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds and attract native bees and butterflies. This plant is excellent for creating a vibrant wildlife garden. [source]
Anise-Scented Foliage
CulinaryThe leaves have an aromatic anise scent and can be used to flavor teas, though the plant is primarily ornamental. Brushing the foliage releases the pleasant fragrance. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe striking blue flower spikes make excellent cut flowers for fresh arrangements, lasting well in a vase and adding vertical interest to bouquets. [source]
Ornamental Garden Design
CraftBlue Queen serves as an excellent vertical accent plant in borders, containers, and mixed gardens, providing continuous color and structure throughout the growing season. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalSalvia species have been used traditionally in herbal medicine. While less commonly used than other Salvias, the leaves contain aromatic compounds with potential antioxidant properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Blue Queen is primarily grown for ornamental flowers rather than harvest. Deadhead spent flower spikes regularly (remove flowers just above the next leaf node) to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Pinch back stems in late summer if needed to maintain compact shape. Flowers can be cut for fresh arrangements when fully open.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Blue Queen is a cultivar of Salvia guaranitica, a species native to South America (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay), where it thrives in subtropical climates and is beloved by local hummingbirds.
- 🌱 The plant's leaves release a distinctly anise-like fragrance when touched or brushed, quite different from the more common sage scent of Mediterranean Salvias.
- 🌱 In frost-free climates, Blue Queen can flower nearly year-round with proper care, making it an exceptionally rewarding plant for continuous garden color.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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