The Fleuroselect judges were full of praise for the lovely new colour of Salvia farinacea 'Fairy Queen'. This attractive new variety bears multiple spikes of bicolour blue and white flowers on dark distinctive flower stems from June to October. A small white spot on each sapphire blue flower creates the illusion of fairy dust. 'Fairy Queen' has a bushy and compact habit and thick stems.
Use
Salvia farinacea 'Fairy Queen' will stand out in a multitude of purposes. It brings mystical, airy presence to beds, borders, meadows and cottage gardens. Plant 'Fairy Queen' in masses for incredible impact. This variety is an excellent summer pot item and also a great candidate for growing in containers and window boxes. Use Salvia farinacea 'Fairy Queen' for long lasting accents and colour on decks, patios, and porches too. In addition to looking beautiful in the garden, 'Fairy Queen' will make great flower arrangements, whether fresh or dried.
Market Value
Being fragrant, this variety will attract butterflies, bees and hummingbirds to the summer garden like other Salvia farinacea varieties; it is suitable for xeriscaping since it is drought resistant.
Background Information
Salvia farinacea belongs to the Lamiaceae/Labiatae (mint) family and goes by the common names of mealycup sage or blue sage and is native to Mexico and Texas. "Mealycup" is in reference to a white powdery substance that is found on the calyx and upper stems of this plant. Salvia farinacea is an herbaceous perennial that is commonly grown as an annual in most cold winter areas for its brightly coloured flowers and aromatic foliage.