Prized by gardeners for its long blooming season and ornamental flowers, Salvia farinacea (Mealy Cup Sage) is an upright or sprawling tender perennial boasting attractive spikes, 4-8 in. long (10-20 cm), densely packed with small, violet-blue, two-lipped flowers that peek from the calyces. Blooming off and on from spring to frost, the blossoms are borne in axillary and terminal racemes on erect, branching, square stems clad with long, narrow, aromatic, gray-green leaves, 3 in. long (7 cm). Rich in nectar, they attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Resembling lavender with its rich flower spikes, Mealy Cup Sage is a colorful addition to perennial borders, wildflower meadows, rock gardens or containers.

• Typically grows in thick, round clumps, up to 18-36 in. tall (45-90 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm)
• Thrives in full sun to part shade in average to rich, evenly moist, well-drained soils. Drought and poor soils are tolerated. Wet soil will make this plant leggy and weak.
• Provides a welcomed vertical accent to beds, borders as well as containers.
• Highly popular for its long-lasting flowers that make excellent cut flowers and compliment any dried arrangements, Salvia farinacea is among the most rewarding plants in the summer garden.
• Easy to grow, low maintenance, and blends nicely with any other annuals or perennials for the best effect!
• No serious pest or disease issues. Keep an eye out for downy and powdery mildew. Tends to be ignored by deer and rabbits.
• Perennial in hardiness zones 8 - 10, it may be grown as an annual in cooler areas.
• After a long flowering period, you may wish to cut it halfway back to produce thicker, more compact foliage and a shorter flowering plant. Pruning may delay flowering for several weeks, but will prevent legginess.
• Propagate by seed or cuttings.
• Native from New Mexico to Florida.