Salvia bullulata: A discreet beauty of the mountains
The discovery: a little-known treasure of the Andes
Salvia bullulata is a sage native to the mountains of Mexico. Although the precise discovery of this species is not fully documented, its name, bullulata, refers to the shape of its flowers which resemble small bubbles, in reference to their slightly rolled appearance. It is a subtle species that evolves in mountainous environments, often in well-drained and stony soils, an environment that allows it to develop its discreet but striking beauty.

A botanical portrait: the elegance of the Andes
Scientific identification
Scientific name: Salvia bullulata
Family: Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae)
Origin: Mountainous regions of Mexico
Morphological description
Size: Medium, generally reaching 60 to 90 cm in height.
Habit: Bushy and airy, perfect for natural gardens or informal clumps.
Foliage
Color: Bright green, slightly silvery in the sun.
Texture: Thin, slightly rough leaves, forming an elegant base for the flowers.
Shape: Elongated, almost tapered leaves, adding a delicate texture to the garden.
Flowering
Period: Spring to summer, with possible repeat blooms in the fall.
Inflorescence: Slender flower spikes, often crowned with small, tube-shaped flowers.
Visual appeal: The flowering, although discreet, brings a touch of bright color, thus attracting attention without being invasive.
Adaptations and ecology
Natural habitat: Well-drained soils in mountainous regions, often sandy or stony.
Preferred climate: Temperate to warm, with good tolerance to drought once established.
Ecological particularities: Attracts butterflies and bees, thus contributing to the biodiversity of the garden.

Salvia bullulata 'Pale Form': Turquoise flowers in autumn
The cultivar 'Pale Form' of Salvia bullulata is a variation that deserves special mention thanks to its unique flowers. This form is distinguished by its turquoise flowers, which appear in autumn, adding a refreshing and original touch to this already remarkable species. The 'Pale Form' also has more rounded foliage, and a more upright shape, which gives it an even more structured and elegant appearance.
Scientific identification of the cultivar
Scientific name: Salvia bullulata 'Pale Form'
Distinguishing characteristics: Turquoise flowers in autumn, rounded foliage and upright shape.
Morphological description of the cultivar
Size: Comparable to the original species, reaching approximately 60 to 90 cm in height.
Shape: More upright and compact, bringing a clear structure to the garden.
Foliage: More rounded and soft leaves to the touch, giving a feeling of volume and density.
The flowering of 'Pale Form'
Period: Autumn.
Color: Bright turquoise blue flowers, bringing an unexpected freshness to fall gardens.
Visual appeal: A soft, bright burst of color that brightens the garden at a time when many other plants are finishing their blooms.
Adaptations and ecology
Habitat: Prefers well-drained soils, similar to the main species. It thrives in sunny or partial shade.
Use: Ideal for rock gardens, borders, or as a background plant in a clump. Its fall blooms also make it an excellent choice for maintaining interest in late-season gardens.

Gardener's tip: An easy-to-grow beauty
Position: Favor a location in full sun or partial shade for optimal blooms.
Soil: Prefers light, well-drained soil that is low in nutrients. You can add sand or gravel to improve drainage.
Care:
Prune lightly after flowering to encourage new growth.
Resists drought well once established.
Use: Perfect in rockeries, dry gardens or as border plants. It also combines very well with other drought-resistant perennials.

A subtle and lasting beauty
Salvia bullulata, and particularly its cultivar 'Pale Form', offers a unique flowering and an elegant silhouette that will bring a touch of freshness and lightness to your garden, while being easy to maintain. Its ability to adapt to poor soil conditions and drought makes it a valuable ally for modern and ecological gardens.