SALVIA ARGENTEA SEEDS

Salvia argentea

One of the most unique in the expansive and diverse genus of Salvia, Silver Sage features a huge rosette of soft silvery foliage. Individual leaves are comically large and covered with a thick layer of down. Requires full sun and moderately dry soils. Easy to grow and too rarely offered at garden centers. Will be happy for at least one season in a large terracotta pot filled with very well-drained soil. Water potted plants regularly.

Tall candelabra-like flowering stalks may appear in the second or third year. Remove bolting stems promptly to preserve the integrity of the foliage. If allowed to bloom this plant will usually self-sow, and then die immediately afterward.

Start indoors at least 8 weeks before the last frost: press seeds into moist well-drained soil and mist generously with warm water. Cover with plastic to maintain warmth and moisture. Kept warm (70°F) and moist in bright light seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks. Uncover promptly once germination begins. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual 4"-6" pots when they have one or two sets of true leaves. Grow on in bright light at warm room temperature before hardening off carefully and transplanting outdoors into full sun after all danger of frost has passed.

Well-drained soil for this species is a must. Do not overwater seedlings, and water transplants only until they are well-rooted.

Packet contains at least 10 seeds.