PlantFiles: Andean Silver-Leaf Sage
Salvia discolor

The leaves of this plant are, IMO, the most deliciously-scented of the salvias. In addition, the eggplant purple flowers are some of the most beautiful amongst the salvias because of the way the color plays off the apple green leaf-tops and the dusty white leaf-bottoms. The long stems make suberb cut flowers that last a week or more in a vase. Additionally, the dried leaves can be used in potpourris and dried arrangements.

Blooms most of the year here in San Diego, CA. Does not require feeding. Thrives on a deep watering every 2-4 weeks (depending on the heat).

The only downside to this plant is that the stalks (but not the leaves or flowers) are very sticky. The resin can stain your clothes, so protection or care is needed when handling the plant.

WOW is this plant a knockout! I already have a weakness for salvias, and this enchanting plant has greatly increased it. Words can't fully describe the loveliness of the silvery-topped, white-bottomed leaves or the beauty of the black bracts against the silver once it blooms. I think it's better to look at photos of this plant to get a sense of it than to try to read descriptions like mine.

This plant seems very difficult to find here in the US (this year is the first time I've found it in 5 years of trying) so I am going to try overwintering mine inside now that I've finally got a plant and seeing how it does.

The very dark flowers, almost black, have a delicious scent of blackcurrants.

Very easy to propagate from cuttings, they grow roots fast in a glass of water.

Perennial Salvia from Peru, Has ovate densely white-woolly, entire mid green stems and leaves up to 2 inches long. Bears long terminal racemes of very deep purple/black flowers from white woolly calyces.

Flowers anytime from May-October sometimes flowers twice if flowering early.

Likes well drained soil and needs winter protection as only frost hardy. Water very sparingly in winter.