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Native Plant Gallery

Blue Sage

Blue Sage

I, KENPEI, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Salvia azurea
Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)

Blue Sage (Salvia azurea) is a striking, tall native perennial known for its brilliant sky-blue flowers and long blooming season. A favorite among pollinators, this hardy species thrives in prairies, open woodlands, and roadsides across much of Texas, including Southeast Texas. Its upright form and airy blooms make it an excellent choice for native gardens, wildflower meadows, and pollinator habitats.

  • Scientific Name: Salvia azurea
  • Common Names: Blue Sage, Azure Sage
  • Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family)
  • Growth Habit: Upright, clumping perennial
  • Height: 2 to 5 feet
  • Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped, gray-green, lightly aromatic
  • Flowers: Bright sky-blue, two-lipped flowers in loose terminal spikes
  • Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
  • Wildlife Benefits: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Habitat & Range in Southeast Texas

Blue Sage can be found in:

  • Prairies & Grasslands: Prefers full sun and open spaces
  • Roadsides & Fields: Tolerant of disturbed sites
  • Sandy or Well-Drained Soils: Does well in dry, upland areas

This adaptable plant tolerates drought and poor soils, making it a resilient addition to low-maintenance landscapes.

Ecological Importance

  • Pollinator Support: Provides a key nectar source for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
  • Drought Tolerance: Valuable for xeriscaping and habitat restoration
  • Soil Health: Deep roots help prevent erosion and support soil structure

Landscaping & Gardening Uses

Blue Sage is a bold and beautiful choice for:

  • Pollinator Gardens: A favorite for native bees and butterflies
  • Wildflower Meadows: Adds vertical interest and vibrant color
  • Low-Water Landscapes: Thrives with minimal irrigation once established

Planting & Care

  • Sunlight: Full sun
  • Soil: Well-drained; tolerates sandy or rocky soils
  • Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant
  • Maintenance: Cut back in late winter or early spring to encourage bushier growth
  • Companion Plants: Looks great with Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Firewheel (Gaillardia pulchella), and Lemon Beebalm (Monarda citriodora)

Fun Facts

  • Blue Sage can be short-lived but reseeds readily in the right conditions.
  • Its clear blue blooms stand out dramatically in prairie settings.
  • Native Americans historically used various parts of sage plants for medicinal purposes.

Conservation & Native Plant Advocacy

Including Blue Sage in your garden or restoration area supports biodiversity and offers essential nectar for late-season pollinators. Its resilience and color make it both an ecological and aesthetic asset.

Where to Find It

  • Interested in adding Blue Sage to your garden? Check if this is in stock or add to cart to purchase directly from our Natives Nursery.

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