Woodland Sage Salvia nemorosa Sensation Deep Blue = 'Florsaldblue' (Sensation Series)
![Balkan clary [Sensation Deep Blue]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b64369b7bb.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
The Salvia nemorosa Sensation Deep Blue, part of the Sensation Series, is a visually striking plant characterized by its vibrant deep blue flowers. These flowers are arranged neatly in dense spikes, creating a bold splash of color that is both eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing. The blooms, with a tubular shape, often attract pollinators to the garden, such as bees and butterflies, adding to the plant's lively display of activity. The foliage of this plant is also notable, with leaves that are lush and typically a shade of green. The leaves present a contrast to the deep blue flowers, thus enhancing the visual appeal of the plant. Together, the blue spikes of flowers and the green leaves create a classic combination that is often sought after by gardeners and landscape designers. The overall impression of the Salvia nemorosa Sensation Deep Blue is one of a vibrant and robust plant that can make a significant impact in any garden setting. Its vivid color palette can be used to great effect in borders, mixed beds, or as a stand-alone specimen creating focal points within a garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Woodland Sage, Balkan Clary
Common names
Salvia nemorosa Sensation Deep Blue = 'Florsaldblue' (Sensation Series).
ToxicityTo humans
Meadow sage, the common name for Salvia nemorosa 'Sensation Deep Blue', is generally not considered toxic to humans. This plant is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes, and there is no significant evidence that suggests severe toxicity upon ingestion. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can vary, and ingesting plant parts can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions in some people. It is usually recommended to avoid eating ornamental plants due to the lack of information on their edibility and potential side effects.
To pets
Meadow sage, which is not typically listed as a toxic plant for pets. It is generally considered safe around pets such as dogs and cats. However, as with humans, individual pets could potentially have sensitivities that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of the plant. Monitoring your pet for any signs of distress after ingestion and consulting with a veterinarian if any concerning symptoms appear is always a good precaution.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Deep blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Europe Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Salvia nemorosa Sensation Deep Blue is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden, promoting biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it has a strong tolerance to drought, making it suitable for dry or xeriscape gardens.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care once it is settled in the garden, making it ideal for gardeners of all levels.
- Long Blooming: The plant produces flowers from late spring to fall, offering extended visual interest.
- Deer and Rabbit Resistant: It is generally resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, helping to ensure its survival and bloom in a wildlife-rich environment.
- Hardy Perennial: As a hardy perennial, it returns year after year, eliminating the need for annual replanting.
- Compact Size: The 'Florsaldblue' cultivar is part of the Sensation Series, renowned for their compact growth habit, suitable for small spaces and containers.
- Colorful Foliage: It has attractive foliage that provides visual interest even when the plant isn't in bloom.
- Easy to Propagate: The plant can be easily propagated by division, making it simple to expand your garden or share with others.
- Landscape Versatility: Suitable for a variety of landscaping designs including borders, rock gardens, and mass plantings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Crafting Potpourri: Dried flowers of the Woodland Sage can be used in creating fragrant potpourri mixes that add a delightful scent to any room.
- Insect Repellent: The aromatic oils in Woodland Sage can be utilized in homemade insect repellent recipes to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay.
- Dye Production: Historically, some species of Salvia have been used for producing dyes, and the leaves of Woodland Sage might be explored for creating natural textile dyes.
- Decorative Garnishes: Fresh or dried flowers of the Woodland Sage can be used as decorative garnishes for plating and presentation of culinary dishes.
- Fragrant Sachets: The leaves and flowers, when dried, can be sewn into sachets to create natural air fresheners for drawers and closets.
- Floral Arrangements: Woodland Sage provides striking deep blue flowers that can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements to add color and interest.
- Photography: Due to its vibrant blooms, this plant is often used by photographers as a subject or backdrop to enhance the beauty of garden photography.
- Culinary Decoration: Edible varieties of Salvia flowers can decorate cakes and desserts; while Woodland Sage isn't commonly eaten, its flowers might inspire similar use.
- Wildlife Garden Design: Woodland Sage plants are perfect for creating habitats that attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds for wildlife gardens.
- Companion Planting: This plant may be used in companion planting to enhance the growth of other plants by attracting beneficial insects or providing ground cover.
- Creative Writing Inspiration: The beauty and tranquility of the Woodland Sage can serve as a muse for poets and writers seeking natural inspiration.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiSalvia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilitySalvia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Wisdom: 'Sensation Deep Blue' Salvia, commonly known as garden sage, embodies wisdom as the Latin name "Salvia" is derived from the word "salvere," meaning "to save" or "to heal," indicating the plant's historical use for medicinal purposes suggesting a deep knowledge of herbal remedies.
- Immortality: Historically, Sage has symbolized immortality, with its long-lasting flowers and its persistence in the garden, reflecting a metaphor for the endurance of the human spirit.
- Purity: The purifying nature of Salvia, particularly when used in cleansing rituals or as a medicinal herb, lends this plant the symbolic meaning of purity and the cleansing of negative energy.
- Protection: Garden sage has often been associated with protection as it was thought to ward off evil when grown in the garden or when used in various cultural rituals.
WaterThe Woodland Sage should be watered deeply once weekly, providing about 1-1.5 inches of water each time, which can translate to approximately 0.6 gallons for smaller plants, scaling up based on size and container. During periods of drought or extreme heat, the frequency may need to increase to maintain moist soil, but allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid overwatering. During the cooler months or when rainfall is abundant, reduce watering to prevent soggy conditions that can lead to root rot. Always water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightThe Woodland Sage thrives in full sun to partial shade, with ideal conditions being at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. It can tolerate some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to protect from intense sun. The best spot for the Woodland Sage would be an area where it receives morning sun and scattered light in the afternoon, or a place where sunlight is consistent throughout the day without being overpowering.
TemperatureThe Woodland Sage can endure a wide range of temperatures but prefers conditions between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive short periods of cold down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate heat up to about 90 degrees Fahrenheit; however, it may need additional water and shade at higher temperatures. The ideal temperature range ensures the best growth and flowering performance of the plant.
PruningThe Woodland Sage benefits from pruning to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Cut back the plant by one-third to one-half after the first flowering to encourage a second bloom. Deadheading spent flowers can also help prolong blooming. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, to tidy up the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMeadow sage requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. A mixture of garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand would provide a suitable environment for optimal growth and health, ensuring good aeration and drainage.
RepottingMeadow sage, being a perennial, doesn't require frequent repotting and does well when left undisturbed. However, if it outgrows its current pot or the soil is exhausted, repotting can be done every 2-3 years during the spring season.
Humidity & MistingMeadow sage thrives in average garden humidity conditions and does not require any special humidity adjustments. As long as the plant is outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, the ambient humidity typically found in temperate climates is satisfactory.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place meadow sage near a sunny window; water when topsoil is dry.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade; protect from strong winds, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Salvia nemorosa 'Sensation Deep Blue', commonly known as Woodland Sage, begins with seed germination, which is optimal in warm and slightly moist conditions. Following germination, the seedlings establish a root system and develop their first true leaves in a vegetative stage where they focus on growth. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, showcasing its vivid deep blue flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce small nutlet-like fruits containing seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. As temperatures cool in autumn, Woodland Sage enters a period of dormancy, with above-ground growth dying back while the root system remains viable. In the subsequent spring, the plant regenerates from the rootstock, with fresh growth marking the beginning of a new cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Salvia nemorosa Sensation Deep Blue, commonly known as Woodland Sage, is frequently propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate using stem cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut it just below a node. This cutting should be about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) long. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The cutting is planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until roots have established, after which it can be transplanted into the garden. This method of propagation can produce a mature plant much quicker than sowing seeds.
