Blue Sage Flower
Salvia azurea Michx.
Blue sage produces striking sky-blue tubular flowers on tall, airy stems from summer through fall. Native to North American prairies, these enchanting blooms symbolize wisdom, clarity, healing, and the expansive beauty of open grasslands.
Lamiaceae (Mint family)
Mid-summer through fall (July-October), until first frost
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: plectranthus mona lavenders and salvias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Blue sage represents the vast American prairie landscape where it thrives naturally. As a native prairie plant, it symbolizes the resilience and beauty of grassland ecosystems. The genus Salvia has long been associated with healing and wisdom across cultures. Blue sage specifically celebrates the rare and precious true-blue color in the plant world, making it a treasure in late-season gardens when most other plants have finished blooming.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun (6+ hours)
Water
Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established, benefits from moisture for extended blooming
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Gravelly, Poor to average, Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Hardy in zones 5-9
Cut stems back by half in late spring to promote compact growth
Stake plants in rich soil to prevent flopping
Deadhead spent flower spikes to extend blooming
Divide clumps in spring every 3-4 years
Self-seeds moderately; easy to propagate from seed or division
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Prairie and meadow gardens
- Pollinator and butterfly gardens
- Native plant landscapes
- Perennial borders (mid to back)
- Cottage gardens
- Cut flower arrangements
Traditional Uses
- Genus name Salvia from Latin "salveo" meaning "to save or heal"
- Used traditionally in Native American medicine
- Aromatic foliage has mild medicinal properties
- Leaves can be used in herbal teas
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Sage Flower
is blue sage a perennial
Yes, blue sage (Salvia azurea) is a hardy herbaceous perennial in USDA zones 5-9. It dies back to the ground in winter and returns reliably each spring.
do deer eat blue sage
No, blue sage is deer-resistant. The aromatic foliage typical of the mint family deters deer and rabbits from browsing, making it ideal for areas with wildlife.
when does blue sage bloom
Blue sage blooms from mid-summer through fall (July to October), providing valuable late-season color when many other perennials have finished flowering.
how do you keep blue sage from flopping
Cut stems back by half in late spring to promote bushier, more compact growth. Also avoid overly rich soil and provide full sun for sturdier stems.
is blue sage good for pollinators
Yes, blue sage is excellent for pollinators, especially bees and butterflies. The tubular flowers provide abundant nectar throughout the late summer and fall.
what is the difference between blue sage varieties
There are two varieties: Salvia azurea var. azurea (native to southeastern states) and var. grandiflora (native further west and north, with larger flowers and often considered better for gardens).
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Plectranthus Mona Lavender
Plectranthus 'Mona Lavender'
Plectranthus Mona Lavender is a popular hybrid with aromatic foliage and spikes of lavender-purple flowers. It symbolizes healing, protection, and tranquility.
Salvia
Salvia splendens (and other spp.)
Salvia produces vibrant spikes of tubular flowers in brilliant colors. Part of the mint family, these drought-tolerant plants symbolize wisdom and healing.
Caryopteris
Caryopteris × clandonensis
Caryopteris is a late-summer blooming shrub with fragrant blue flowers that attract butterflies and bees. Known as Bluebeard, it symbolizes tranquility and serenity.