Annual Salvia
Victoria Blue Salvia is a compact, open-pollinated cultivar of Salvia farinacea prized for its dense spikes of deep blue flowers that bloom reliably from summer through frost. Growing just 18 to 24 inches tall, it reaches harvestable flower maturity in 125 to 130 days and thrives in hardiness zones 8 through 10. This half-hardy perennial excels both as a fresh cut flower and dried arrangement, bringing sophisticated color to gardens and bouquets alike.
12-18 inches apart
Partial Shade
—
8-10
24in H x ?in W
Annual
Low
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Dense spikes of deep blue flowers emerge from compact plants that bloom prolifically from summer straight through to frost, delivering reliable color when many other flowers are fading. The flowers are substantial enough to harvest for fresh arrangements or hang to dry for long-lasting dried displays. At just 18 to 24 inches tall with a naturally compact habit, Victoria Blue doesn't require staking or aggressive pruning, fitting neatly into borders, containers, and cutting gardens without taking up much space.
Victoria Blue Salvia shines as a long-lasting cut flower for fresh bouquets and arrangements. The dense flower spikes can also be harvested and hung to dry, holding their color and form beautifully through the drying process for enduring dried arrangements.
Sow Victoria Blue Salvia indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Gently press seeds 1/4 inch deep into moist soil but do not cover them, as light is required for germination. Use bottom watering or gentle misting to keep the soil moist without displacing the seeds. Maintain a soil temperature of 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit for reliable sprouting.
Harden off seedlings gradually over 7 to 10 days before transplanting outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. Space plants 10 inches apart in their final location.
Direct sow in clumps of 3 to 4 seeds, pressing them 1/4 inch deep into prepared soil. Thin seedlings as they emerge to achieve 10-inch spacing.
For fresh or dried flowers, harvest when the bottom 3 to 4 flowers on each spike have opened. To dry, cut the spikes and hang them upside down in a warm, well-ventilated space until completely dried.
Victoria Blue Salvia's naturally compact growth habit requires minimal pruning. Deadheading spent flower spikes encourages longer bloom periods and bushier growth, particularly if you're not harvesting flowers for arrangements. In spring, cut back any winter-damaged stems after frost danger has passed.
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