Noteworthy CharacteristicsSalvias 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.

CareOutdoors, grow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade; indoors, grow in full light with shade from the heat of day. Water sparingly in winter.

PropagationSow seed of perennials in spring. Divide in spring.

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