PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
First described in horticultural journals in 1821, this striking salvia is native to Brazil. The large flower wands attract hummingbirds and other pollinators like few others, while deer and rabbits stay away, repelled by its pungently scented foliage. Site in a sheltered location in the mid-border and cut back the fading flowering stems for continued lush blooming. Easy care, provide even moisture and a bit of fertilizer when planting. Flowering starts in mid-summer and continues until frost claims it.
Mix about 2" of compost into the soil prior to planting, and apply a time-release general organic fertilizer.
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:
When about 1/2 of florets have opened