Salvia Africana – Blue African Sage

Description

Salvia africana-caerulea (Blue African Sage, Blousalie) is a hardy, evergreen, much-branched shrub indigenous to the coastal hills, dunes and rocky areas of South Africa’s Cape region. It grows 1–2 m tall with soft, greyish, hairy, aromatic leaves and produces abundant spikes of beautiful two-lipped flowers that are typically vivid blue to bluish-purple (sometimes with pinkish tones).
Why We Love It
We love this true South African gem for its striking blue flowers that light up the garden from midwinter right through summer (often almost year-round with light pruning). The silvery-grey foliage adds lovely texture and contrast, while the strong aromatic scent is a bonus. It’s tough, drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it ideal for water-wise gardens. A magnet for pollinators, it attracts bees and butterflies, and sunbirds frequently visit for nectar, bringing delightful movement and life to the garden.
Cultivation and Care
Light: Full sun.
Soil: Well-drained, any type including poor, sandy or rocky; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Water: Moderate while establishing; highly drought-tolerant once mature.
Planting: Spring or autumn, spaced 60–90 cm apart. Perfect for fynbos, water-wise, coastal, gravel or herb gardens.
Maintenance: Cut back lightly after flowering to keep it neat, compact and encourage more blooms. Generally pest- and disease-resistant; deer-tolerant.