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Salvia argentea (Silver sage)

Salvia argentea Photo/Illustration: David Cavagnaro



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Salvia argentea SAL-vee-ah ar-JEN-tee-ah Common Name: Silver sage Genus: Salvia
This biennial or short-lived perennial is grown for its massive, downy-silver rosettes of foliage. In its second year, it spawns plumes of white or pinkish flowers with gray calyces in mid- to late summer. The plant has a spiky form, 3 feet tall by 2 feet wide. Locate it where the rosettes can be easily seen.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Large, silvery leaves.
 Care: Grow in moist but very well-drained soil in full sun. This species tolerates heat, humidity, drought, and alkaline soil. Protect from excessive winter moisture.
 Propagation: Sow seed or divide in spring.
 Problems: Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Fast Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Dry to Medium
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Attracts Hummingbirds; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage
Bloom Time Early Fall; Late Summer; Summer
Flower Color Pink Flower; White Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Cut Flower, Suitable as Annual
Style Herb Garden, Cottage Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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