Salvia azurea var. grandiflora: a sage of the great plains 🌾

Origin and history
Salvia azurea var. grandiflora is a herbaceous sage native to the great prairies of the southern and central United States, where it grows naturally on open plains. First described in 1833 by the British botanist George Bentham, this variety is distinguished by its large blue flowers and delicate foliage. In Europe, it gained popularity in the 20th century, fitting perfectly into natural-style gardens, thanks in particular to its resistance to drought and its graceful appearance.

Complete botanical description
Family: Lamiaceae.
Habit: Herbaceous, supple and spreading. The branches, long and thin, lie naturally on the ground, creating a relaxed silhouette.
Foliage: Elliptical, very fine and delicate, of a soft green, offering a light and elegant texture.
Flowers: Large and bright azure blue, grouped in loose spikes.
Flowering: From mid-summer to autumn.
Adult size: 80 to 120 cm high, with a wide horizontal extension.

Morphological and evolutionary characteristics
Adapted to life in meadows, Salvia azurea var. grandiflora has evolved to withstand extreme drought and heat conditions.
Its flexible branches allow it to resist wind while minimizing breakage.

Growing and maintenance tips
Exposure: Full sun for optimal flowering.
Soil: Light, well-drained, and rather poor. It adapts well to calcareous or sandy soils.
Watering: Minimal once established, ideal for dry gardens.
Hardiness: Cold resistant to around -15°C.
Maintenance:
Clean the stump in spring to encourage new growth.
If a more upright habit is desired, stake it, although its natural character is to spread freely.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a neat shape if necessary.

Use in the garden
Ideal association: Combine it with gauras, rudbeckias or light grasses such as Stipa tenuissima for a natural and airy effect.
Garden style: Perfect for meadow gardens or sunny borders.
Attractiveness: Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Little gardener's tip
To maximize its impact, let it express itself naturally by planting it among other flexible perennials. A light mulch at the base will protect its soil from excess moisture in winter. 🌞

Conclusion
With its captivating large blue flowers and its relaxed habit, Salvia azurea var. grandiflora brings a unique touch to sunny gardens. An ode to the beauty of the great American plains, while being perfectly adapted to the requirements of modern gardens.