(Salvia guaranitica) SAL-vee-ah gwar-an-IT-ih-kah Genus:  Salvia

This perennial produces long spires of large, deep blue flowers from mid-summer to frost. It forms a tall bush 6 feet tall by 2 feet wide that is great for the back of the border. It is drought tolerant because of its unusual, moisture-conserving rhizomes.

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Salvias are some of the showiest plants for containers, annual borders, and mixed borders. The flowers are made up of two lips: the upper one forms a hood over whiskery stamens and the lower lip, which itself is wide and toothed. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them. 

Care: 

Outdoors: grow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; it is drought resistant. Indoors: grow in full light with shade from the heat of day; water sparingly in winter

Propagation: 

Sow seed of perennials in spring. Divide in spring.

Problems: 

Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Fast Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Fall, Summer Flower Color Blue Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Perennials