Blue salvia – Native to Kentucky?
Missy Asked
I’ve had blue salvia growing for 20 years in my side garden bed here in Louisville. It explodes every year and is quite invasive. Stands 4 ft or taller. Bees loves it. So does Kuzu vines. I just don’t remember it’s name and if it is a native Kentucky plant?
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Missy: The salvia in the photo that you sent is Salvia guaranitica ‘Black and Blue’. It is native to Brazil and considered a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 7-10. The cobalt blue flowers and deep purple/black stems provide interest in the garden from mid-summer into the fall. Several years ago, I planted a quart size black and blue salvia in a blue glazed container with summer annuals. The salvia has taken over the container and successfully returned for several years, without any winter protection. The electric blue flowers produce nectar that attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. These showy blooms are great in cut flower arrangements too.
