Botanical Name: Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Blue’ Common Name: Anise Sage, Blue Salvia Hardiness Zone: Perennial in USDA Zones 7–10 (Grown as an Annual in Colder Climates) Size: 30–48" Tall × 24–36" Spread Growth Habit: Upright, Bushy, Well-Branched Habit Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade Soil: Well-Drained Soil; Adapts to Average Garden Conditions Water Needs: Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost Fertilizer: Light Feeding in Spring; Avoid Excess Nitrogen Features: Deep Cobalt-Blue Flowers with Black Calyxes, Strong Stems, Heat Tolerant, Hummingbird Magnet Uses: Perennial Beds, Pollinator Gardens, Back-of-Border Plantings, Cut Flowers

Patent: ❌ Not Patented Propagation: ✔ Propagation Permitted

More About Salvia ‘Black & Blue’

Salvia ‘Black & Blue’ is one of the most iconic hummingbird plants ever introduced, known for its electric cobalt-blue flowers set against dramatic black calyxes. The contrast is striking and instantly recognizable, making it a standout in both perennial and pollinator gardens.

The plant forms a tall, upright clump with strong stems and aromatic foliage. In warm climates, it behaves as a long-lived perennial; in cooler regions, it performs vigorously as a fast-growing annual, often reaching full size in a single season.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Black & Blue’ has been a consistent top performer for pollinator activity, especially hummingbirds, which visit relentlessly once the plant begins blooming. It thrives in summer heat, handles humidity well, and continues flowering when many perennials slow down.

We especially appreciate its height and structure. It provides vertical interest and works exceptionally well at the back of beds or as a bold focal plant among shorter perennials and annuals.

‘Black & Blue’ vs. Other Salvias

Compared to compact or trailing salvias, ‘Black & Blue’ offers significantly more height and presence, making it better suited for landscape beds rather than containers.

When compared to similar tall salvias, its black calyx + blue flower combination is unmatched for visual contrast and hummingbird appeal. For gardeners seeking a dramatic, heat-loving salvia with unmatched pollinator power, Salvia ‘Black & Blue’ remains a classic for good reason.