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Key characteristics

Family: Lamiaceae
Height: 18 to 24 in
Width: 18 to 24 in
Flower color: Deep violet-blue flower spikes with darker purple calyces
Foliage color: Medium green, lance-shaped, lightly textured leaves forming a compact basal clump
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low, shear back spent flower spikes to encourage rebloom
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Perennials

Salvia x sylvestris 'May Night'

May Night Sage

Salvia x sylvestris 'May Night' produces upright flower spikes densely packed with deep violet-blue blossoms that emerge in late spring and continue into early summer, often followed by repeat flowering later in the season. The blooms are held above narrow, deep green foliage that forms orderly clumps and provides a strong backdrop for the dark-toned calyces, which deepen the overall color effect.

'May Night' has become a staple in ornamental gardens.

Light

Full sun

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Sun Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Containers

Companion plants

Yarrow · Ornamental grasses · Garden phlox · Black-eyed Susans · Daylilies · Lavender

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)