Growing Salvia in Zone 8B

Salvia is a diverse genus with hundreds of species — all attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, and most extremely heat and drought tolerant.

Zone 8B enjoys a long growing season. You can often get two plantings of cool-season crops (spring and fall).

Top Growing Tips

• Annual salvias (S. splendens) need 10-12 weeks from seed
• Perennial salvias (May Night, East Friesland) return yearly in zones 4+
• Cut back by half after first bloom flush to encourage repeat flowering
• Blue and purple salvias are especially attractive to hummingbirds
• Very deer and rabbit resistant — aromatic foliage deters browsing

Companion Planting

Good companions: roses, lavender, echinacea, ornamental grasses

Avoid planting near: Wet, poorly-drained sites

Harvest Timeline

Ornamental; deadhead spent spikes to encourage rebloom

About Zone 8B

USDA Hardiness Zone 8B has an average last spring frost around Mar 12 and first fall frost around Nov 18. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.