Caradonna Salvia

Characteristics & Cultural Requirements

• Height/Spread: 18 to 24 inches tall by 18 inches wide
• Habit/Form: Upright
• Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
• Exposure: Full sunlight
• Soil: Average, well-drained

Ornamental Value/Landscape Use

Caradonna salvia, a member of the Sage family, is a medium size perennial that grows in clumps, has gray-green foliage, and reaches about 12 inches in height. Its attributes include dark purple stems covered in violet-blue flowers. The dark stems not only enhance the vibrancy of the blooms, but extend the bloom-time further than most salviae. Even when the Caradonna salvia begins to fade, the stems remain dark purple giving the illusion that the plant is still blooming.

Caradonna salviae typically bloom in June and last about four weeks. We encourage removing spent blooms since salviae sometimes rebloom in the summer. Caradonna salviae attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators and are typically resistant to deer and rabbits. They are low maintenance and are ideal for garden bouquets. Tolerant of drought and clay soils, they perform best in well-drained, sandy or rocky soil. In humid summers, they are susceptible to splitting or flopping down the center. We recommend cutting the plant back to the base foliage to encourage new growth and maintain a clean appearance. The Caradonna salvia makes a wonderful addition to borders and pollinator gardens.