The plants grow in a wide range of USDA hardiness zones and come in various sizes and flower colors.
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For Borders
All types of salvia are suitable for borders.
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The flowers attract other pollinators as well, including honeybees, bumblebees, and other native bees and butterflies.
The seeds serve as food for house finches, American goldfinches, and other birds.
In extended dry conditions, salvia should be watered slowly but deeply and thoroughly.
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Below are just a few common types to consider planting.
Red salvia grows 1-2 feet tall and 9-18 inches wide.
Plant it in soil rich in organic matter.
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Unlike other salvias, is does best in consistently moist soil, but must be well-drained.
Its vibrant blue flowers from mid-summer to fall attract bees and butterflies.
With 4-5 feet in height and 2-4 feet in width, it is one of the taller sages.
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It grows in sandy or rocky soil.
Moist, well-drained soil is preferable though the plant withstands occasional dry spells.
Excellent soil drainage, preferably with some sand mixed in, is key.
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Creeping sage has blue-purple flowers from May to June, rising in 6-inch spikes above the evergreen foliage.
It grows in sandy, loamy, or clay soil that must be well-drained.
The plant does not tolerate regular summer watering.
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California Native Plant Society.
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