Also known as Balkan Clary · Pasture Sage · Wild Sage
Purple Wood Sage (Salvia nemorosa) is a popular perennial known for its spiky, deep violet-blue flower stems and aromatic foliage, blooming from late spring to fall.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water regularly, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Prefers average room temperatures and dislikes extreme heat.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Generally does not require heavy fertilization; a light feeding in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain consistent moisture. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings once established. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in cooler months.
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Cut back the plant by about one-third in late spring or early summer after the first flush of blooms.
A harder prune in late autumn or early spring can rejuvenate the plant.
Easily propagated from seeds sown in early spring or by stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Seeds can be sown directly outdoors after the last frost or started indoors.
Cuttings root readily in moist, well-draining potting mix.
Established plants generally do not require frequent repotting and prefer to be slightly root-bound. If repotting is necessary, do so in spring before new growth begins.
Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one with adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Purple Wood Sage (Salvia nemorosa)
Where Purple Wood Sage (Salvia nemorosa) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
| Species | Salvia nemorosa × nutans |
Similar in genus Salvia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
