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"The Salvia border at the National Herb Garden has about 180 species and cultivars of different sages, and one of the best is cherry sage,
Salvia microphylla. Native to southeastern Arizona through Mexico, I originally had doubts that it would perform well in the collection, but over the years I have been pleasantly surprised. There are many cultivars available, as well as some botanical varieties. Two of the best are
'Dennis Pink' and 'Wild Watermelon.' Others that we grow include
'La Trinidad Pink' and magenta-pink 'San Carlos Festival.'
Perfectly root-hardy at the National Arboretum (zone 7), cherry sage has been twig-hardy in mild winters. In zones north of zone 7, a heavy mulch should help it overwinter. Cultivars and varieties may differ in hardiness depending on their provenance, but all need full sun and well-drained soil.
In mid to late spring, cherry sage is covered with bright, dark pink flowers. After the initial display, flowering continues throughout the summer, with another big show in the autumn. Whether in flower or not, the foliage has a delightful fragrance and can be dried and added to potpourri."
Plant source: Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh, North Carolina,
www.plantdelights.com
– James Adams, Curator of the National Herb Garden,
Promising Plants Presentation, 2004
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Text and images © 2004 The Herb Society of America
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