Salvia discolour with its deep navy blue/purple to black flowers and contrasting grey green stems is an outstanding salvia for a relatively frost free area. This is one of the more unusual salvia species and well worth a place in the garden.
This salvia is originally from Peru and will flower from summer right through to autumn. It will reach around 1m in height and has a nice arching habit.
Also known as the ‘Silver Leafed Sage’, the foliage or S. discolor has a silvery grey green upper side with a lighter silvery underneath that really contrast the dramatic sweetly scented flowers.
In cooler areas this one will be deciduous in cold winters, in very cold wet winters you may lose it, not really a problem in most areas of mainland Australia. In warmer areas in just keeps flowering
Salvia discolour – Growing conditions and Care
Like most salvias this Salvia discolor requires a well drained sunny position, good drainage in winter is essential. Works well as a cut flower, and the aromatic foliage has a pleasant scent.
Flowers are attractive to bees and birds. Salvia discolor can be cut back in winter, or tidied up throughout the year.
Best in areas where summers are reasonably dry and not really suited to tropical or sub tropical areas.
Propagation is from seed or from cuttings taken in late summer to autumn.
Summary Information
- Height – To 1m plus
- Spread – Will spread to form a clump of .5m over time.
- Position – Full sun to a a little shade.
- Soil – Humus rich well drained.
- Flower Color – Deep purple.
- Flowering period. – Long flowering from spring through to autumn.
- Foliage – Silvery mid green with a contrasting silver reverse.
Salvia discolour is available for sale from the following nurseries.
862 Midland Highway Mount Rowan Vic 3352
We offer over 245 varieties of Fuchsia, tubestock, pots, baskets and standards. Mail order specialists. Open 7 days by appointment.
www.brenlissaonlinenursery.com.au
470 Monbulk-Silvan Road Monbulk VIC 3793
"Guaranteed mail order flowering bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, landscaping plants, garden accessories and community fundraising Austra lia-wide."
www.gardenexpress.com.au