LIFE CYCLE
Annual
PLANT CHARACTERISTICS
pollinator-friendly
GROWTH HABIT
upright
BLOOM SEASON
Winter to spring
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Ornamental
SUITABLE FOR
Outdoor
SEED TYPE
Open-pollinated seeds
PLANT TYPE
Flowering
PLANTING SEASON
Spring
FRUIT SIZE
Not applicable
PLANT HEIGHT
60 to 100 cm
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
full sun
WATER NEEDS
Moderate
HARDINESS ZONES
5 to 9
CONTAINER GARDEN
Yes
PLANT SPACING
30 to 45 cm
PLANTING DEPTH
Surface sow
GROWING CONDITIONS
Well drained
Frequently Asked Questions
The listing says "Annual," but the description calls it a "perennial" — which is correct?
The listing says "Annual," but the description calls it a "perennial" — which is correct?
Salvia glutinosa is genuinely a perennial, so the "Annual" life cycle listed here appears to be inconsistent with the plant's actual nature.
The light requirement says "full sun," but growing instructions call for shade — which should I follow?
The light requirement says "full sun," but growing instructions call for shade — which should I follow?
Follow the shade guidance; this plant is genuinely shade-tolerant and suited to woodland conditions, so the "full sun" field appears to be a data error.
What does "glutinosa" mean, and why does it matter?
What does "glutinosa" mean, and why does it matter?
It means "sticky," referring to the noticeably sticky, glandular hairs on the plant's stems and leaves, a real tactile characteristic of this species.
Is this the same plant used as culinary sage?
Is this the same plant used as culinary sage?
No, this is an ornamental woodland salvia, distinct from Salvia officinalis, the species grown for cooking.
Why is pale yellow an unusual color for this plant?
Why is pale yellow an unusual color for this plant?
Most well-known garden salvias are bred or known for blue, purple, or red blooms, so this species' soft yellow flowers stand out as a less typical salvia color.
Does this plant have a folk nickname?
Does this plant have a folk nickname?
Yes, it's sometimes called "Jupiter's Distaff," a old folkloric name tied to European herbal tradition.