The largest genus of the mint family, Salvia consists of as many as 900 species of annuals, perennials and soft-wooded shrubs, distributed through most parts of the world except very cold regions and tropical rainforests. Their distinguishing feature is the tubular, 2-lipped flower with the lower lip flat but the upper lip helmet-or boat-shaped; the calyx is also 2-lipped and may be colored. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including some of the brightest blues and scarlets of any plants, though yellows are rare. Many beautiful sage species are grown as garden plants, including some with aromatic leaves grown primarily as culinary herbs, but even these can be grown for their ornamental value along.

The genus goes back to Roman times and derives from the Latin salvus, "safe" or "well", referring to the supposed healing properties of Salvia officinalis.

Salvia greggii, Texas Sage is a useful heat- and drought-tolerant perennial that grows 2-3' in
height with a 3' spread. The leaves are 1-2" long and have a heavy sage fragrance. The
lipped flowers are are held in whorls of twos or threes, and may be red, pink, violet, or white, although scarlet is most typical. Flowering occurs from mid-summer well into fall.

Maas has Salvia in many different types and colors. Come see our large variety of flowers and colors.