Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Salvia officinalis 'Icterina'
Icterina Sage
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Height
- 18 to 24 in
- Width
- 18 to 24 in
- Flower color
- Pale lavender to light violet
- Foliage color
- Gray-green leaves edged and marbled with creamy yellow to soft gold variegation
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to light shade
- Water
- Low to moderate
- Maintenance
- Low, trim after flowering to keep plants compact
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 8
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' forms neat, variegated evergreen mounds of softly textured leaves edged in creamy yellow, creating a gentle contrast against the gray-green centers of each blade. The foliage remains aromatic throughout the year, adding sensory interest even when the plant is not in bloom. In late spring to early summer, upright stems rise above the leaves carrying whorls of pale lavender to soft violet flowers that bring seasonal color to the garden.
'Icterina' combines ornamental value with traditional herb-garden appeal. It fits naturally into borders, herb plantings, and mixed perennial beds, where its foliage brightens planting schemes and its blossoms support pollinators. The plant also adapts well to containers and edging, offering year-round structure and dependable seasonal interest.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Containers
Companion plants
Bee balm · Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
