Salvia x westerae

Salvia X westerae
Botanical Name: Salvia X westerae

Salvia x westerae is a woody based perennial from the Andes Mountain region, growing up to 1.2 meters high and wide under good conditions. It has a sprawling habit as it grows and in most gardens it may be smaller than this. The branches are erect and symmetrical when the plant is young, but sprawl when older. Structural plants, including other salvias, positioned nearby may provide a useful supportive framework. The dark green leaves are lance shaped and large, reaching up to 10 cm. The profuse and large tubular flowers are held on long inflorescences over a long blooming period beginning in summer and continuing through autumn. The blooms may be pink, dark pink or a red-violet colour depending on the exact hybrid. The bracts are green with a slight blush of pink.

This salvia is a naturally occurring hybrid from Bolivia from the parents Salvia haenkei and Salvia orbignaei. It is said to be a better quality and nicer plant than either of the parents. The name ‘westerae’ is after Dr Petra Wester a German researcher who discovered the hybrid in its various forms. She also conducted research on the co-evolution of the many hybrids from these two parent salvia, their pollination and the varying bill length of the many native hummingbird species. As a quite recent discovery in the last decade, his salvia is still uncommon and may be referred to as Hybrid Bolivian Sage or Petra’s Sage.

Salvia x westerae does well in full sun but part shade is beneficial, especially in dry and warm regions. It requires regular water, well drained soil and is not considered cold hardy. Despite its size, this salvia can do very well in containers with pruning to keep the structure tidy.

The salvia family has over 900 members with an extensive history as culinary, medicinal and ornamental plants. Ornamental salvias have become collectors items, as gardeners try to find a place in their garden for each and every one. There are salvias that will suit every type of soil and climate. More information on the Salvia genus and Common Sage (Salvia officinalis) may be found on our Common Sage page.