Salvia guaranitica

Blue anise sage is an herbaceous perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae) from Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina. The species epithet, guarantica, means "of Guara" and references the place of origin as Guara, Brazil. 

This plant grows in full sun to partial shade and prefers humus-rich, evenly moist, well-drained soil. It is drought and heat tolerant once established. Although it is a tender perennial that is hardy in zones 8 to 10, it may be grown as an annual in cold-winter regions. 'Black and Blue' is hardier than other cultivars and will survive milder winters in zone 7 if well mulched.

Blue anise sage produces tuberous roots that allow it to survive adverse conditions, but they also allow the plant to reproduce vegetatively. This plant gently spreads and fills a space. It can be readily contained in a large pot, but potted plants must be brought under protection when temperatures plummet.

Use this sage as a border or mass planting in a garden bed, container, or naturalized area. It works well in a pollinator, butterfly, or cottage garden, as it is a reliable nectar source for butterflies and hummingbirds and is seldom damaged by deer.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Whitefly, aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites are insect problems. Rust, powdery mildew, stem rot, and fungal leaf spot are disease problems.

VIDEO created by Andy Pulte for “Landscape Plant Identification, Taxonomy and Morphology,” a plant identification course offered by the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Tennessee.

More information on Salvia.