Salvia

Salvia nemorosa · aka ornamental sage, wood sage

Ornamental salvia sends up slim, upright spikes densely packed with small tubular flowers in deep purples and blues. As a member of the sage family it carries a light herbal scent and a naturalistic, meadow-like character. Florists reach for it as a line flower to add height, rhythm and cool colour to garden-style arrangements. It pairs beautifully with roses, veronica and grasses.

At a glance

Family	Lamiaceae
Origin	Europe and Western Asia
Peak season	June, July
Availability	May, June, July, August, September
Stem length	30–60 cm
Vase life	5–8 days
Colors	purple, blue, lavender
Price tier	mid

Conditioning

Cut stems cleanly and remove the lower leaves, which wilt quickly in water. Condition in deep, cool water for several hours before arranging. Keep away from heat and drafts, and refresh the water often as salvia drinks heavily.

Care in the vase