Salvia x sylvestris ‘Blue Hill’ (‘Blauhugel’ Sage)
Wood Sage 'Blue Hill', Salvia 'Blue Hill', Wood Sage 'Blauhugel', Salvia 'Blauhugel', Salvia nemorosa 'Blauhugel', Salvia nemorosa 'Blue Mound', Salvia x Superba 'Blauhugel'Salvia x sylvestris ‘Blue Hill’, commonly called Meadow Sage ‘Blue Hill’, is a delightful perennial that brings both beauty and practicality to gardens. Its upright spikes of violet-blue flowers bloom from early to late summer, creating a long-lasting display. These flowers, loved by pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, make ‘Blue Hill’ an excellent addition to eco-friendly gardens. Its aromatic gray-green foliage complements the vibrant blooms while adding a layer of texture to garden designs. With a compact, clumping habit that grows 18–24 inches tall and wide, it fits well in borders, rock gardens, or containers.
Adaptable to various environments, ‘Blue Hill’ thrives in USDA zones 4–8. It performs best in full sun but can tolerate some light shade, which makes it flexible for different garden layouts. Although it prefers average, well-drained soils, it adapts well to sandy or gravelly types, ensuring successful growth in challenging conditions. Once established, ‘Blue Hill’ becomes drought-tolerant, reducing the need for frequent watering. In addition, its deer-resistant nature makes it a reliable choice for low-maintenance landscapes. Regular deadheading encourages reblooming, and cutting back after flowering helps maintain a neat appearance.
Care Instructions
- Light Needs: Provide full sun for optimal flowering; light shade is also tolerated.
- Soil Type: Thrives in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils, and adapts to sandy or gravelly conditions.
- Watering: Water deeply during the first growing season to establish roots, then reduce frequency once the plant is established.
- Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth and blooms.
- Pruning: Deadhead faded blooms to encourage reblooming. After flowering, cut back stems to promote fresh growth and maintain the plant’s form.
- Spacing: Space plants 16–18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation and healthy growth.
Salvia x sylvestris ‘Blue Hill’ is a dependable perennial that adds vibrant color and fragrance to any outdoor space. Its ease of care and ability to attract pollinators make it a standout choice for gardeners.
