Salvia ‘Black and Blue’
Closeup of 'Black and Blue.' Note the unusual black base of the flowers.
* Common name: Salvia ‘Black and Blue’
* Botanical name: Salvia guaranitica ‘Black and Blue’
* What it is: An upright perennial farther south but an annual here that sometimes overwinters with protection. Main attraction is tubular, steely-blue flowers in summer that are absolute hummingbird magnets. Flowers have jet-black bases.
* Size: 30-36 inches tall, 2 feet around
* Where to use: Makes a nice pot centerpiece but also does well in any sunny garden with reasonably decent soil. No soggy clay. Use one or more outside a window so you can watch the hummingbirds from inside.
* Care: In a pot, water regularly to keep soil consistently damp. Fertilize every week or two with a high-phosphorus fertilizer. Less water and fertilizer needed in the ground. Snip off spent flower tips to encourage new blooms. Spraying not needed.
* Great partner: Any silver-leafed plant, such as dusty miller, licorice plant or dichondra ‘Silver Falls.’
'Black and Blue' potted on George's patio.