Salvia guaranitica Black and Bloom

Description

Black and Bloom Anise Sage
Salvia guaranitica ‘Black and Bloom’
Growing Conditions
SUNLIGHT
Full sun to light afternoon shade; best flowering occurs with at least 6 hours direct sunlight
WATERING
Water deeply 2-3 times per week during summer, reducing to once weekly in winter; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates brief dry spells once established
SOIL TYPE
Well-draining, humus-rich loam with compost incorporated; tolerates clay if drainage is improved
TEMPERATURE
Tolerates -3°C to 38°C; may die back to ground level in frost but regrows vigorously from roots in spring
HUMIDITY
Adaptable to average garden humidity; performs well in both dry highveld and humid coastal conditions
FERTILISING
Apply slow-release balanced fertiliser (3:1:5) in early spring and midsummer, or liquid feed fortnightly during active growth
GROWTH RATE
Fast; establishes quickly and reaches mature size within one growing season, often flowering in first year
MATURE SIZE
1.2–1.5 m height x 0.8–1 m spread
Did You Know?
This cultivar produces dramatically dark purple-black calyces that remain ornamental long after the deep blue flowers fade, creating a stunning two-toned effect that persists for months and is particularly prized by florists for fresh and dried arrangements