How to Grow Sensation Deep Blue
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Sensation Deep Blue
Salvia splendens 'Sensation Deep Blue'
flowerSensation Deep Blue is a striking cultivar of scarlet sage featuring deep blue-purple flowers that bloom abundantly throughout warm seasons. This compact, bushy annual produces dense spikes of tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It's a popular choice for borders, containers, and mass plantings due to its vibrant color and reliable performance.
When should you plant Sensation Deep Blue in your zone?
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Example Sensation Deep Blue timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Sensation Deep Blue
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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First Sensation Deep Blue blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Sensation Deep Blue dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-11; grown as annual in zones 3-4
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with two cotyledons emerge in 7-14 days; develop first true leaves
Maintain consistent moisture and warmth (70-75°F); provide bright light; avoid damping off by ensuring good air circulation
Vegetative
4-6 weeksPlant develops multiple sets of leaves and a bushy form; no flowers yet
Pinch growing tips when plant reaches 3-4 inches tall to promote branching; fertilize every 2 weeks with balanced fertilizer
Flowering Initiation
2-3 weeksFlower buds begin to form at branch tips; first spikes appear
Switch to slightly lower nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooms; maintain consistent watering; provide full sun exposure
Blooming
3-4 months or until frostDense spikes of deep blue-purple flowers cover the plant; continuous blooming throughout growing season
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms; maintain consistent moisture; fertilize every 2-3 weeks; watch for pests
Senescence
Varies by climateFlowering slows and plant declines as temperatures drop or day length shortens
In mild climates, can be cut back and overwintered; remove plant after frost in annual growing zones
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; maintain humidity around plants
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or fungicide; remove affected leaves
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and
Hand-pick at night; use slug barriers or copper tape; apply diatomaceous earth; encourage ground beetles
Uses
Edible flowers for garnish
CulinarySalvia flowers are edible and can be used as colorful garnishes for salads, desserts, and cocktails. They have a mild, slightly peppery flavor that adds visual and taste interest to dishes. [source]
Traditional herbal use
MedicinalSage species have been used in traditional medicine for respiratory support and sore throat relief. While Salvia splendens is primarily ornamental, related salvia species contain beneficial compounds like thujone and rosmarinic acid. [source]
Hummingbird and pollinator nectar
WildlifeThe deep blue-purple flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and bees, making this plant excellent for pollinator gardens. The tubular flower shape is specially adapted for hummingbird feeding. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
HouseholdSensation Deep Blue produces long-lasting flower spikes perfect for floral arrangements and mixed bouquets. The unique blue-purple color adds sophistication to dried or fresh flower displays. [source]
Dried flower crafts
CraftFlowers dry well when hung upside-down in a warm, dark location, retaining much of their blue color. Dried spikes can be used in wreaths, potpourri, and other dried flower arrangements. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Deadhead flowers regularly by pinching off spent flower spikes just below the bloom to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Cut stems for fresh arrangements in the morning when fully hydrated; flowers last 5-7 days in a vase with fresh water.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Salvia splendens 'Sensation Deep Blue' is a hybrid cultivar developed specifically for the ornamental plant market, offering unusual blue-purple coloring compared to traditional red salvias.
- 🌱 The name 'Salvia' comes from the Latin word 'salvare,' meaning 'to heal,' reflecting the medicinal history of sage plants across many cultures.
- 🌱 Hummingbirds can see the ultraviolet spectrum and are naturally drawn to blue and purple flowers; they can visit hundreds of flowers per day using their incredible high-speed metabolism.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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