Meadow Clary
Salvia pratensis
Rosea
About this plant
Meadow Clary is a perennial plant known for its spikes of vibrant blue to purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It has aromatic leaves and is often used in wildflower gardens or naturalized areas. The plant attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies and adds a splash of color to meadows and borders.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Salvia
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, Western Asia
- Distribution
- Native to Europe and western Asia; widely cultivated in gardens across temperate regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -30 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15–25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 4–8
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flower production.
Salvia pratensis is a hardy and easy-to-grow perennial that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It tolerates drought once established and generally requires low maintenance. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root problems, but it is otherwise resistant to most pests and diseases.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- late spring–early summer
Showy flower spikes in blue or purple, aromatic foliage, upright form
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe to grow around children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Salvia pratensis can produce pollen that may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially during its flowering season. People with pollen allergies should limit exposure during this time. The plant's pollen is the main trigger, and symptoms may include sneezing or itchy eyes. To reduce exposure, avoid planting it near windows or outdoor seating areas if you are sensitive.
Common problems
Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot. Inadequate sunlight may cause weak growth and fewer flowers. Occasionally, aphids or powdery mildew may appear but are usually manageable.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental plant for garden borders, wildflower meadows, and pollinator gardens. It attracts bees and butterflies.
Notes
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if unwanted. Prune back in late autumn or early spring to maintain shape and vigor.