Purple Knockout Salvia (Salvia lyrata), also known as Lyre-Leaf Sage, is a hardy native perennial valued for its dramatic dark purple foliage and striking lavender-blue spring flowers. This non-GMO seed variety thrives in full sun or partial shade and adapts easily to meadows, pollinator gardens, wildflower beds, and naturalized landscapes. With excellent drought tolerance and high wildlife value, Purple Knockout Salvia is an ideal low-maintenance ornamental for gardeners seeking bold color and strong ecological benefits.

Features

• Deep purple foliage with lavender-blue spring blooms
• Non-GMO native perennial Salvia variety
• Excellent for pollinator gardens and wildlife habitats
• Thrives in full sun to partial shade
• Drought-tolerant once established
• Long-lived, low-maintenance groundcover or border plant
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
• Strong ornamental appeal with seasonal color

Specifications

• Common Name: Purple Knockout Salvia, Lyre-Leaf Sage
• Scientific Name: Salvia lyrata
• Plant Type: Perennial
• USDA Zones: 4–9
• Season: Spring and early summer blooms
• Height: 12–24 inches
• Bloom Color: Lavender-blue
• Foliage: Dark purple to bronze leaves
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Preference: Well-drained, average soils
• Water Needs: Low to moderate
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Heat Tolerance: High
• Cold Tolerance: Excellent
• Plant Spacing: 12–18 inches
• Seed Longevity: 1–3 years when stored properly

Planting Guide 

• Sowing Method: Direct sow outdoors or start indoors.
• Seed Preparation: Lightly press seeds onto soil surface; requires light to germinate.
• When to Plant:
• Early spring
• Late fall for natural cold stratification
• Sowing Depth: Surface sow; do not bury.
• Germination Time: 14–30 days depending on temperature.
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil Conditions: Well-drained soil; tolerates poor to average soils.
• Watering: Keep moist during germination; drought-tolerant once established.
• Maintenance:
• Remove spent flower stalks to encourage fuller growth
• Allow natural reseeding for larger colonies
• Cut back old foliage in late winter or early spring