Botanical Name: Salvia farinacea ‘Mirage™ Blue’ Common Name: Blue Salvia, Mealycup Sage Hardiness Zone: Grown as an Annual in Most Climates (Perennial in USDA Zones 8–11) Size: 12–18" Tall × 12–16" Spread Growth Habit: Compact, Upright, Well-Branched Habit Sunlight: Full Sun Soil: Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Average to Poor Soils Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost Fertilizer: Light Feeding in Spring; Avoid Excess Nitrogen Features: True Blue Flower Spikes, Compact Size, Heat Tolerant, Pollinator Friendly Uses: Borders, Containers, Mass Plantings, Pollinator Gardens

Patent: ✔ Patented Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

More About Salvia ‘Mirage™ Blue’

Salvia ‘Mirage™ Blue’ is a compact, early-flowering salvia prized for its clear, true blue flower spikes and tidy growth habit. The blooms rise cleanly above dark green foliage, providing crisp color and strong contrast from late spring through the height of summer.

The Mirage™ series was bred specifically for uniformity, compact size, and excellent heat tolerance, making this variety ideal for gardeners who want reliable color without excessive height or flopping.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Mirage™ Blue’ has been a dependable, low-maintenance performer, especially in full sun and high heat. It flowers early, maintains a neat shape without pinching, and continues producing blooms steadily with minimal care.

We especially appreciate its design flexibility. Its controlled size makes it easy to use at the front of borders, in mixed containers, or planted in groups for clean, modern mass displays.

‘Mirage™ Blue’ vs. Other Salvias

Compared to taller salvias like ‘Black & Blue,’ ‘Mirage™ Blue’ offers a much more compact and refined habit, better suited for smaller spaces.

When compared to bedding salvias, it delivers stronger blue coloration and improved heat tolerance. For gardeners seeking a compact blue salvia with season-long bloom and dependable performance, Salvia ‘Mirage™ Blue’ is an excellent choice.