Salvia cacaliifolia

Salvia cacaliifolia (synonym S. cacaeliifolia), also known as Guatamalan-leaved Sage, is a botanical species native to southern Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras where it grows at medium altitudes. This perennial plant, woody at the base, forms a bushy clump composed of leafy stems that bear long spikes of beautiful gentian blue flowers that last late into the season. This beautiful sage is quite easy to grow but a bit tender. It will make a big impact in a large pot on the terrace, to be overwintered frost-free, or in a bed in a coastal garden.

Salvia cacaliifolia belongs to the lamiaceae or labiate family. This plant eventually forms a bushy clump composed of woody stems at the base, bearing large triangular leaves (3 to 7 cm (1 to 3in)) of a beautiful acidic to medium green, shiny on the upper side and more or less evergreen in winter. It will reach about 60 cm (24in) in all directions. Its nectar-rich flowering generally begins in June, earlier or later depending on the climate, and continues until the first frosts with branched, upright flower spikes of about 40 cm (16in). The flowers are composed of two very elongated lips, gentian blue in colour and slightly lighter on the lower lip. A rare shade, visible from afar. The base of each flower is enclosed in a dark calyx. The hardiness of the crown does not exceed -3 to -4 °C, in a protected position and in dry soil during the winter. Cold destroys the above-ground parts of the plant, but vegetation regrows from the ground the following year.

Guatamalan-leaved Sage will delight collectors. It is a beautiful plant for beds in coastal gardens, away from salt spray. In mild climates, it can accompany sturdy perennial plants or bushes, such as Salvia grahamii, Gaura, or a pink coneflower. Tall sedums (Sedum 'Matrona'), shrubby potentillas, and tall bushy asters for autumn (Aster turbinellus, Aster Laevis, Kalimeris mongolica) will also create a charming scene alongside it. On the terrace, place it in a very large pot, so that it can be stored away from heavy frost in winter.