I have grown Salvia uliginosa in moderate to strong light conditions. It will survive on limited water
but really prefers a regular drink. Without adequate water the plants
look pretty ratty in the summer, but I have yet to lose one due to
drought. Blue Spike Sage is sometimes also sold under the common name
"Swamp Sage." In its native habitat in Brazil and Argentina it grows in
boggy areas. The foliage has a scent that I find unpleasant so I plant it a bit back
from the walk. It gets about 3 feet or so tall and goes dormant for the
winter. I prune it to the ground at that time. Blue Spike Sage proliferates vigorously with
root stolons. While it is enthusiastic I would not call it aggressive
but it can be close. Salvia uliginosa is a great nectar source for the
Mournful Duskywing and the
California Dogface Butterfly and is a nice
addition to the Butterfly Garden as well as the
hummingbird garden.
High resolution photos of Salvia uliginosaare are part of our garden image collection.
