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Salvia sphacelioides

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Salvia sphacelioides

(Furry Colombian Sage) The leaves of this rare shrub are a glossy mid-green on top and fuzzy with hairs underneath, which is why it's commonly called Furry Colombian Sage.

Common name This is the non-scientific name used for a plant. A plant may have several common names, depending on the gardener's location. To further confuse the matter, a common name may be shared by several completely different plants. At Flowers by the Sea, we rely on the scientific name to identify our plants and avoid confusion. Furry Colombian Sage
USDA Zones The U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones indicate the temperature zones where a plant is likely to thrive. It is determined by the average annual winter minimum temperature. Actual winter temperatures may be higher or lower than the average. 8 - 11
Size (h/w/fh) The anticipated mature size of the plant: Height, Width & Flower Height. 60"/60"/60"
Exposure This is the average amount of sunlight that a plant needs to thrive. Generally, full sun exposure is 6 or more hours of direct sun daily while partial shade is less than 4 hours of sun or dappled shade all day. Plants may tolerate more sunlight in cooler climates and need afternoon shade in extremely hot climates. Full sun to partial shade
Soil type This is the kind of soil that a plant needs to thrive. Most plants require a well-drained soil that allows the water to soak into the soil without becoming soggy. Sandy and clay soils can be improved by digging in compost to improve drainage. Well drained
Water needs Plants have specific water requirements. Water loving means the plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. Average generally indicates applying 1 inch of water per week, or watering when the soil is dry to a depth of 3 to 4 inches. One inch of water is equal to 5 gallons per square yard of soil surface. Average
Container plant? "Yes" indicates that this plant can be successfully grown as a container plant. Yes
Hummingbird plant? Hummingbirds have been observed regularly feeding from this plant's flowers. Yes
Mature height The mature height of this plant in average conditions. 5 to 6 feet
Mature spread The mature width of this plant in average conditions. 5 to 6 feet
Degree of Difficulty
Easy
Degree of Difficulty
This plant is easy to grow in a variety of conditions.
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(Furry Colombian Sage) The leaves of this rare shrub are a glossy mid-green on top and fuzzy with hairs underneath, which is why it's commonly called Furry Colombian Sage.

Although first collected in 1845, Salvia sphacelioides is just making its way into commercial horticulture in America and Europe. We are one of the few nurseries offering it.

The foliage is deeply textured similar to another blue-flowered South American species Salvia corrugata. However, the leaves of Salvia sphacelioides are smaller and more triangular. Also, its flower spikes are a bit airier due to fewer blossoms.

In areas with moderate winter weather, this tall sage forms an effective groundcover, especially in wildlife gardens. Hummingbirds enjoy its long-blooming, deep violet-blue flowers.

Native to Colombia, Salvia sphacelioides is listed on that country's endangered species list as being "vulnerable." So planting it in your garden helps to preserve the species.

Give this sage full sun to partial shade and average watering based on your local conditions. It isn't particular about the type of soil in which you plant it, but similar to all Salvias, it requires good drainage.