Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Bloom’: A Garden Show-Stopper

Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Bloom’, commonly known as Anise-Scented Sage, is a striking addition to any garden, particularly those designed with a Mediterranean flair. Known for its vibrant dark blue flowers and unique black stems, this plant is not only a visual delight but also a robust performer in high heat and humidity. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, which is commonly known as the mint family. This family includes aromatic members and square stems, and a variety of other well-known herbs, and ornamental plants such as mint, basil, rosemary, lavender, and sage.

Salvia guaranitica is native to South America, particularly Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. They selectively bred the ‘Black & Bloom’ cultivar for its improved performance and striking appearance. This cultivar stands out with its deep blue flowers and nearly black stems, creating a dramatic contrast against its green foliage.

Key Characteristics:

Flower Color: Dark blue flowers that emerge from striking black stems.
Foliage: Green leaves that are aromatic when crushed, are often described as having a slight anise scent.
Blooming Season: Blooms continuously from spring through fall, often until the first frost.
Plant Habit: Upright growth habit, making it an excellent choice for the middle or back of garden borders.

How to grow Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Bloom’:

Light: Prefers full sun to partial sun. In regions with extremely hot summers, some afternoon shade can help protect the plant.

Watering: Water regularly, especially during the establishment period. Once established, Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Bloom’ is relatively drought-tolerant but performs best with consistent moisture. In containers, it may require more frequent watering.

Soil: Thrives in loose, organically rich, moist, well-drained soil. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

Temperature: This salvia is heat and humidity-tolerant, making it ideal for Mediterranean-style gardens. In warm winter regions, it behaves as a perennial. In colder climates, it is typically grown as an annual.

Size: Fast-growing, reaching 3 to 4 feet tall and wide, creating a substantial presence in the garden.

Fertilizing: Fertilize monthly during the growing season to promote vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

Maintenance: Remove spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming. In regions where it is grown as a perennial, cut back the plant to about 3 inches above the soil line in early spring and apply a balanced fertilizer to stimulate new growth.

Pests and Problems: Generally rabbit resistant, beneficial in areas with high rabbit populations. Regularly check for common garden pests and apply appropriate treatments if necessary.

Propagation

1. Propagation by Seeds:

Seed Collection: Collect seeds from mature flower spikes after they have dried on the plant.
Sowing: Sow seeds indoors in late winter or early spring. Use a seed-starting mix and lightly press the seeds into the soil. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C).
Transplanting: Once seedlings have developed a few true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors.

2. Propagation by Cuttings:

Timing: Take cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Selecting Cuttings: Choose healthy, non-flowering stems and cut about 4-6 inches below a node.
Preparation: Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in the rooting hormone.
Planting: Insert the cuttings into a pot filled with a mix of perlite and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light location.
Root Development: Roots should develop within a few weeks. Once the cuttings are well-rooted, they can be transplanted into the garden.

3. Division:

Timing: Divide established plants in early spring before new growth begins.
Method: Dig up the entire plant and carefully separate the root clump into smaller sections, ensuring each section has both roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately.

Conclusion

Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Bloom’ is an exceptional choice for gardeners seeking to add a bold, colorful statement to their landscapes. With its vibrant blue flowers and dramatic black stems, this plant is sure to attract attention and admiration. Its resilience in high heat and humidity, combined with its relatively low maintenance requirements, makes it a versatile and rewarding addition to gardens in a variety of climates. Whether grown as an annual or perennial, ‘Black & Bloom’ will provide continuous beauty and interest from spring through fall.