Native to the Peruvian Andes, Salvia discolor Cassis is a semi-evergreen perennial sage with intensely aromatic foliage and stunningly dark flowers. Its deep green leaves with silvery undersides and near-black, violet flowers provide exceptional contrast, while the foliage releases a distinctive blackcurrant scent when touched. A true collector’s plant, it thrives in well-drained soils and adds high ornamental value to borders, dry gardens, and containers.
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Packaging
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Packaging
P24 A9
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Available quantity 232 | Dispo à partir de Immédiat | Sold by 24 |
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Packaging
GT9
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Available quantity 70 | Dispo à partir de Immédiat | Sold by min 10 |
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Characteristics of Salvia discolor Cassis
Salvia discolor Cassis, known as Cassis Sage or Peruvian Black Sage, is a rare ornamental sage from the Lamiaceae family. It features a compact to arching growth habit and aromatic foliage with a remarkable two-tone appearance. The foliage emits a fruity blackcurrant scent when rubbed, adding a sensory layer to its aesthetic appeal. Long, upright flower spikes emerge throughout the warm season, bearing dark purple-black tubular flowers with contrasting silvery calyces. Though it is frost-sensitive, it can overwinter in mild climates or with protection in colder zones. Ideal for warm, sheltered areas, it’s a dramatic and fragrant addition to any plant palette.
How to Use Salvia discolor Cassis in Landscaping ?
Salvia discolor Cassis is perfect for ornamental borders, gravel gardens, rockeries, or aromatic plantings. It also thrives in containers, making it easy to overwinter in sheltered locations. Its rare black-toned flowers and silver foliage offer a bold contrast to light green or silver-leaved companions, Mediterranean herbs, or ornamental grasses. The plant fits particularly well in dry or low-maintenance schemes and is also suitable for edible or sensory gardens—both the foliage and flowers are aromatic and sometimes used as garnish. In contemporary design, its architectural look and unusual colour make it a focal point or contrast plant.
Growing Tips for Salvia discolor Cassis
Best planted in spring after frost risk, or early autumn in warm climates. Space 50–70 cm apart for mature spread. Enrich the planting hole with light compost for optimal root development. Prefers well-drained, light to moderately fertile soil—sandy or loamy, with good aeration. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils. Moderate watering is needed during establishment; once mature, it becomes fairly drought-tolerant. Light pruning in late winter or early spring encourages denser regrowth. Deadheading spent spikes during flowering can prolong the blooming period. In colder regions, provide mulch at the base or grow in pots for indoor overwintering. Though top growth may die back, the root crown may survive if well protected.
