Pitcher Sage (Salvia azurea)

Distinguishing Characteristics

Stems square with short, dense hairs. Leaves opposite, short-stalked. Up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. Hairy, with a few teeth along the margins.

Height

3 to 5 feet

Blooms

July to October

Description

The blue flowers with white centers are held in densely packed whorls at stem ends, above dark green, linear foliage. Plants form many upright, branching stems from the base.

Comments

Found southwestern tallgrass prairie region, south of the Missouri River on prairies and glades. Does well on drier sites, often in rocky or sandy soils. Common component of many native wildflower mixes, as this species is easy to establish and may bloom the first year from seed. Conspicuous blue flowers are a favorite of bees.