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Salvia - Gentian Sage 'Oxford Blue'
Seed Packet

Salvia - Gentian Sage 'Oxford Blue'

Salvia patens
Native to the mountains of Mexico, this vibrant cobalt-blue flower was introduced into our gardens in the first part of the nineteenth century. The loose 'parrot beak' shaped blossoms are a true delight combined with golden feverfew, lime Nicotianas, and tall verbena.
SKU #S908
$4.00
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
14
Lifecycle
Annual; tender perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
8,
9,
10
Annual Hardiness
Half Hardy Annual
Mature Size
2-2.5' h x 1-1.5' h
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Rich, moist, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
True blue
Features
Great for containers
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Hummingbirds
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow or lightly cover.
Sprout Time:
7-14 days
Seed To Bloom:
16-18 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Start in well-drained germinating mix 6-8 weeks before last frost. Keep at 65-75°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow after last frost.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last spring frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
I can hardly imagine a garden without salvia, for the genus has so many irreplaceable floral gems–easy to grow, trouble-free, many quick to bloom, and growing lustily in gardens and containers. They offer a neverending parade of flowers (at least until frost) and the entertainment by their attendant hummingbirds. Those pesky deer avoid it, perhaps stayed by the unpleasant aroma of the bruised leaves. Pinch back once plants reach 6" tall to encourage bushiness. The graceful stems of gentian sage are dotted with cobalt-blue lipped blooms mid-summer to fall. Add to the mixed border with other summer annuals. In fall its tuberose roots can be dug and stored like dahlias.
Final Spacing:
1-1.5'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
About 1" per week.
Soil pH:
Not particular about pH
Fertilizer:
Do not overfertilize. If soil is poor, mix about 2" of compost into the soil prior to planting and topdress annually in springtime.
Diseases & Pests:
Prevent powdery mildew by spacing plants apart for increased air circulation. Aphids can be washed off leaves with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap applications.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Cut when several flowers on stem are open.