Salvias are some of the most versatile and vibrant plants you can add to your garden. With their wide range of colors, sizes, and growth habits, they offer an incredible selection for creating beautiful outdoor spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, buying salvias online gives you access to an expansive variety of these plants that buy salvias online might not be available at local nurseries. If you’re ready to add salvias to your garden but are unsure where to start, here’s a guide to the top salvia varieties you should know about when shopping online.
One of the most popular and easy-to-grow varieties is Salvia splendens, often referred to as the “red sage.” Known for its bold red flowers, Salvia splendens is perfect for adding a pop of color to any garden. This variety thrives in full sun and well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of climates. Salvia splendens is commonly used in bedding plants, borders, and containers, making it a versatile option for gardeners. When buying online, you’ll find many color variations beyond red, including pink, white, and purple, all of which attract hummingbirds and butterflies. These plants are known for their long blooming period, typically lasting from late spring through fall, which makes them a great choice for continuous garden color.
If you’re looking for a more compact and fragrant salvia, Salvia nemorosa is an excellent choice. Known for its elegant spires of purple, lavender, or pink flowers, Salvia nemorosa is a reliable perennial that works well in herb gardens, flower beds, and even as a ground cover. This variety is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it suitable for a wide range of garden conditions. Salvia nemorosa is also prized for its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding even more life and movement to your garden. Online nurseries typically offer several cultivars, such as Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ with its dark purple flowers or Salvia nemorosa ‘May Night’ with vibrant violet spikes, making it easy to find the perfect variety for your garden’s color scheme.
For gardeners in warmer climates or those looking for a more fragrant variety, Salvia greggii, also known as “Autumn Sage,” is a fantastic option. Salvia greggii comes in a range of colors, including red, pink, purple, and white, and is known for its ability to bloom through late summer and fall, providing extended color when other plants may be fading. This variety thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it perfect for xeriscaping or drought-tolerant gardens. It’s a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require a lot of water once established, making it ideal for gardeners in arid climates or those who prefer plants that need minimal care. When shopping online, be sure to check for cultivars that offer different color variations to suit your landscape.
If you’re seeking a more dramatic, taller salvia variety, Salvia leucantha (Mexican bush sage) is a must-know. This stunning variety is prized for its long, arching spikes of soft, velvety purple flowers, which appear from late summer to fall. Salvia leucantha is perfect for adding height and texture to borders, hedgerows, and wildflower gardens. This variety prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and it grows best in warmer climates. Its unique flowers also attract pollinators, particularly hummingbirds, making it a great addition to a wildlife-friendly garden. When buying online, you’ll find it in several cultivars, including Salvia leucantha ‘Santa Barbara’ with its especially large flowers.
For those looking for a more aromatic and culinary option, Salvia officinalis, or common sage, is a must-have. Not only does this variety work wonders in the kitchen, but it also brings attractive silvery-gray foliage to your garden. While Salvia officinalis is commonly grown for its leaves, it also produces small, purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. This hardy herb thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and can be used as a ground cover, border plant, or in herb gardens. Buying Salvia officinalis online allows you to explore different varieties, such as Salvia officinalis ‘Purpurascens’, a variety with purple-tinged leaves, or Salvia officinalis ‘Tricolor’, known for its variegated foliage.
In conclusion, buying salvias online opens up a world of beautiful and diverse varieties for your garden. Whether you’re looking for the classic Salvia splendens with its bold blooms, the elegant spires of Salvia nemorosa, or the fragrant Salvia greggii, there’s a salvia variety for every gardener. For those seeking taller plants or drought-tolerant options, Salvia leucantha offers a stunning display, while Salvia officinalis is perfect for those who want a culinary touch. With so many options available online, you can find the ideal salvia to suit your garden’s aesthetic and growing conditions, making it easier than ever to create a beautiful, vibrant garden full of color and life. Happy gardening!
