Blue anise sage (Salvia guaranitica)

Also known as: Salvia

Blue anise sage (Salvia guaranitica) is a flowering perennial herb that attracts bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, and resists deer. It grows best in shade in rich soil and is drought resistant. Blue anise sage is common in gardens and considered easy to grow.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Blue anise sage

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

61 cm to 1.5 m

Spread

60 cm to 1.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Blue Purple

Images of Blue anise sage

Quickly Identify Blue anise sage

Vivid blue to purple tubular flowers with a prominent lower lip.

Ovate to lance-shaped leaves with a textured surface and distinct vein pattern.

Distinctive two-lipped flower structure with protective upper lip and wide lower lip.

Schizocarp fruit splits into four chambers, each containing a small nutlet.

Dry fruits typically brown or black, less than 1/8 inch (3 mm) in size.

Scientific Classification of Blue anise sage

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Sages

Species

Blue anise sage

Planting and Growing of Blue anise sage

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

10-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Blue anise sage?

Salvia guaranitica prefers evenly moist soil, but not soaking wet. It's best to water them until the soil feels damp but not soggy, meaning about 500 milliliters per watering. Always make sure excess water can drain away to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Blue anise sage? ›

What should I do if my Blue anise sage is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Blue anise sage? ›

How to save an overwatered Blue anise sage? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Blue anise sage?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours per day

Salvia guaranitica ideally favors full sun to partial sun conditions. Optimal light encourages lush blooms and strong, healthy plant structure, significantly enhancing its ornamental appeal.

What is the best lighting condition for Salvia guaranitica? ›

How can I ensure Salvia guaranitica gets ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does Salvia guaranitica gain from ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Blue anise sage?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for Salvia guaranitica is between 68°F and 77°F. This range provides the best conditions for the plant's growth, ensuring optimal photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and resistance to pests and diseases. Maintaining this temperature range supports robust flowering and foliage development.

What Soil is Best for Blue anise sage?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Salvia guaranitica thrives in well-draining soil, preventing root rot and allowing roots to access sufficient oxygen. Well-drained conditions help the plant absorb nutrients efficiently, leading to robust growth and abundant flowering. This plant benefits from nutrient-rich soil, allowing for vibrant foliage and consistent blooms. Fertile soil provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which support its overall health and vitality. While drainage is crucial, Salvia guaranitica also likes soil that can retain some moisture, especially in dry conditions. It helps maintain consistent hydration levels, preventing wilting during warmer spells. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Blue anise sage?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Salvia guaranitica requires moderate amounts of fertilizer to thrive. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium works well. Use a water-soluble liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength for tender plants every two weeks during the growing season. For slow-release granules, apply at half the strength recommended for typical perennials. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Blue anise sage?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Be cautious not to prune too late in the growing season, particularly in late autumn. Excessive pruning can remove the foliage that helps to protect the roots against cold winter temperatures. Pay attention to where new buds are forming and avoid cutting them off. Pruning too aggressively without observing these growth points can lead to reduced flowering. Always ensure to use clean, sharp pruning tools to make smooth cuts. This reduces the risk of introducing diseases, which can quickly affect the plant's health. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Blue anise sage plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Summer

Choose non-flowering shoots that are healthy and robust. Each cutting should be approximately 4-6 inches long with at least two nodes to encourage root and stem growth.

Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. This helps in reducing water loss and directing the plant’s energy towards root development.

Insert the cuttings into a potting mix or directly into the garden soil. Ensure the soil is well-draining and water the cuttings thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Blue anise sage plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Salvia guaranitica shows signs of needing repotting when its roots start emerging from the drainage holes or when growth appears stunted. Spring and early summer are the ideal times to repot, as the plant is actively growing and can recover quickly from the process. It's crucial to provide the plant a fresh start with renewed soil and space.

Opt for a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with plenty of drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. Terracotta pots are an excellent choice as they're breathable, helping to prevent root rot. The extra space allows the roots to expand, promoting healthy growth and stabilization of the plant.

Utilize a well-draining soil mixture enriched with organic matter; this supports the plant’s nutritional needs while preventing water buildup. Adding components like perlite or sand can enhance drainage, ensuring that excess moisture doesn't linger around the roots, which could otherwise lead to fungal issues.