Lake Baikal Anise Sage

Lake Baikal Anise Sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Lake Baikal') is a compact anise sage about 50cm high and wide, roughly half the size of the species. Vibrant cobalt-blue flowers sit on navy-blue stems from spring to autumn, and the leaves smell of aniseed when crushed. It was bred to flower fast on long stems and is small enough for a patio pot.

Why you'll love it

• Cobalt blue on navy stems. Dark stems and calyces set off vibrant blue petals for a rich, saturated look.
• A long season. Flowers run from spring to autumn on a plant that earns its keep.
• Half the size. At about 50cm it fits pots and small borders where the full-size anise sage would not.
• Quick to bloom. The Lake series is bred for vigorous growth and fast flowering on long stems.
• Pollinator friendly. Bees, butterflies and birds are drawn to the tubular flowers.

Where it works best

Patio pots. Compact enough for a large container on a sunny patio or balcony.

Small borders. Plant 50cm apart in front of taller perennials for a band of blue.

Wildlife and cottage gardens. The long flowering season keeps pollinators supplied from spring until autumn.

Growing Lake Baikal Anise Sage in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade. Protect it from frost, though it might come through a light overnight one, so it suits subtropical, warm temperate and Mediterranean gardens. In colder areas use a pot that can move under shelter.

Soil. Rich soil with a layer of mulch. In pots use a quality potting mix and feed through the warm months.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks, then water regularly in dry periods. Feed with slow release fertiliser in spring, and give an extra boost in summer heat with a seaweed tonic.

Pruning. Clip over after flowering to encourage fresh growth and repeat flowering. Cut it hard back in midsummer, when it has a little rest from blooming.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Lake Baikal Anise Sage as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once it is in the ground. Tube plants are small but vigorous. Plant or pot them up promptly and water in well to get the first flowers moving.

Because tube stock is supplied by our grower, it is not always available. When it is sold out, use the notify button on this page and we will email you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse salvias
• Plants for balconies
• Bee and butterfly friendly plants
• Perennial plants for a cottage garden

Common questions

How big does it get?

About 50cm high and 50cm wide, half the size of the standard anise sage, so it suits pots and small beds.

When does it flower?

From spring through autumn. Clip it over after flowering and cut it hard back in midsummer, when it rests, to encourage repeat flowering.

Can it handle frost?

It needs protection from frost, though it might survive a light overnight one. In cold gardens keep it in a pot and shelter it over winter.