Salvia nemorosa ‘May Night’
Overview
Uses: Perennial borders, pollinator gardens, cottage gardens, mixed beds, mass plantings, cut flower gardens
Benefits: Deep violet-blue flower spikes, long bloom window with repeat potential, sturdy upright stems, strong pollinator value, dependable perennial performance
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
Sun: Full Sun
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Clumping, Upright — dense mound with vertical flower spikes.
Bloom Color: Deep Violet Blue
Mature Height: 18–24 inches
Mature Width: 18–24 inches
Bloom Season: Late Spring to Early Summer, with repeat bloom
Growth Rate: Moderate
Summary
‘May Night’ is grown for saturated violet-blue color on strong, upright stems that hold their form in the landscape. It brings structure and depth to sunny borders while remaining refined and dependable.
Blooming heavily in late spring, this classic perennial often produces a second flush when trimmed after its first display. Dark stems and narrow green foliage provide contrast even when not in flower, allowing it to function as a structural backbone in mixed plantings.
For gardeners seeking reliable perennial color with pollinator appeal and clean architecture, ‘May Night’ offers long-proven performance season after season.
Care
Salvia ‘May Night’ Care
Grow in full sun for best flowering and strongest growth. Well-drained soil is essential, as plants do not tolerate consistently wet or heavy conditions.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a healthy root system. Once established, plants are moderately drought tolerant and require supplemental watering only during extended dry periods.
If desired, apply a light application of slow release fertilizer in spring to support vigorous growth.
Shearing back spent flower spikes after the initial bloom can encourage reblooming and helps maintain a compact appearance. Cut plants back in late fall or early spring before new growth emerges.
Size
What Size is Salvia ‘May Night’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in grower pots as healthy, well-rooted perennials. Size may vary depending on the time of year and growing conditions. If you have specific questions about current plant size, please contact us.
How Large Does Salvia ‘May Night’ Grow?
At maturity, ‘May Night’ typically reaches 18–24 inches tall and spreads 18–24 inches wide, forming a full, upright clump well suited to borders and mass plantings.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Salvia nemorosa is commonly known as meadow sage and is sometimes referred to as woodland sage.
Is ‘May Night’ attractive to pollinators?
Yes. The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the bloom period. Explore additional selections in our Perennials collection.
Does ‘May Night’ rebloom?
It often does. Cutting back spent flower spikes after the initial bloom can encourage a second round of flowering later in the season.
How does it compare to other perennial salvias?
‘May Night’ is known for especially deep flower color and sturdy stems, which help it maintain a clean, upright habit compared to looser-growing varieties. Browse more options in our Deer-Resistant Perennials and Grasses collection.
