Salvia guarantica is a large, long flowering herbaceous perennial native South America. It has a tall upright habit making it a good choice to plant at the back of an herbaceous border.
The ovate leaves are a mint green in colour and aromatic when crushed.
The wonderful deep blue to purple two lipped flowers have tiny hairs on the outside and emerge from green, purple tinged funnel shaped calyces. The flowers are borne in pairs along the upper portion of the stems. Peak flowering time early summer through autumn.
Upright stems grow from creeping root stock. These can spread and take over the flower bed if not kept in check. In warmer climates leave roots in the ground, however, in frost susceptible area dig up and replant after the threat of frost has diminished.
These Salvia species will tolerate heat and humidity so grow well in climates similar to Sydney's. Despite being tolerant of humidity it is important to ensure there is good air circulation around the plant.