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Andean silver-leaf sage

Salvia discolor

SAL-vee-ah DIS-kul-or Audio

This tender perennial from Peru is highly unusual for its dramatic, purple-black flowers and pistachio-green calyces. The flowers appear from late summer to early fall. The drama is heighted by its contrasting silvery leaves and stems, which are densely cloaked in woolly, white hairs. Plants grow to about 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide. This specimen looks great tumbling over the edge of a container.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsSalvias are some of the showiest plants for containers, annual borders, and mixed borders. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them. 

CareProvide moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Salvia discolor is drought resistant.

PropagationSow seed, or divide, in spring. Take cuttings from spring through fall.

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

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  • Genus : Salvia
  • Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
  • Plant Width : 1 to 3 feet
  • Zones : 10, 9
  • Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Showy Foliage
  • Uses : Containers
  • Tolerance : Drought Tolerant
  • Moisture : Dry to Medium
  • Bloom Time : Early Fall, Late Summer
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest

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