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Key characteristics

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

Perennials

Salvia officinalis 'Icterina'

Icterina Sage

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.

Light

Full sun to light shade

Water

Low to moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

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.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)