Meadow Sage (Salvia nemorosa) is a dependable, long-blooming perennial admired for its rich purple flower spikes and sturdy vertical growth. Ideal for pollinator gardens, meadows, and borders, it thrives in full sun and dry, well-drained soils. Its bold spikes create striking contrast against softer foliage plants, while the nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects all summer long. Easy to grow, drought-tolerant, and highly ornamental, Meadow Sage is a classic choice for both home gardens and ecological landscapes.
Features
- Rich purple flower spikes draw bees and butterflies.
- Outstanding summer-long bloom performance.
- Thrives in sunny, dry, low-maintenance landscapes.
- Ideal for pollinator beds, borders, meadows, and cottage gardens.
- Durable foliage and upright stems resist wind and heat.
- Non-GMO Salvia nemorosa seed variety.
Specifications
- Common Name: Meadow Sage, Balkan Clary, Woodland Sage
- Scientific Name: Salvia nemorosa
- Plant Type: Perennial flowering herb
- USDA Zones: 4–9
- Bloom Color: Purple to violet spikes
- Bloom Season: Late spring through summer (reblooms with deadheading)
- Height: 16–30 inches
- Spread: 12–18 inches
- Growth Habit: Upright, clumping
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained soil; thrives in dry or rocky ground
- Water Needs: Low once established
- Drought Tolerance: High
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes (bees, butterflies)
- Deer & Rabbit Resistance: Moderate
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
- Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
- Sow indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors in spring or fall.
- Lightly press seeds onto soil surface; cover thinly (about 1/16 inch).
- Keep soil moist until germination (10–20 days).
- Provide full sunlight for compact, sturdy seedlings.
- Transplant after frost into well-drained, sunny locations.
- Water regularly during establishment; reduce watering after plants mature.
- Deadhead spent blooms to extend flowering through summer.
- Cut back after first bloom cycle to encourage rebloom.
- Leave seedheads in fall for wildlife interest if reseeding is desired.
