The Salvia 'Amistad' is a stunning hybrid sage variety known for its vibrant, deep purple flowers and long blooming season. Native to South America, this purple Salvia cultivar has quickly gained popularity in gardens due to its striking appearance and ease of care.  

As a member of the mint family, it shares many characteristics typical of salvias, such as aromatic leaves and strong drought tolerance once established. 'Amistad' is a must-have for any gardener looking to add a splash of color while also attracting pollinators. 

The common name "Friendship Sage" is a direct translation of 'Amistad,' reflecting its widespread appeal and use in garden settings around the world. The genus name Salvia comes from the Latin word salveo, which means 'be well' and refers to the plant's medicinal properties. 

Salvia 'Amistad' is best known for its vibrant deep purple blooms, complemented by dark, nearly black sepals (outer part of flower), creating a bold contrast.

The foliage consists of lush, mid-green leaves with a slightly wrinkled texture.

This plant can grow up to 5 feet tall and can spread to about 3 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for the back of flower beds or as a border plant.

The tubular flowers of Salvia 'Amistad' are a rich purple with dark calyces (whorl), blooming almost continuously from late spring through early fall.

The long bloom period, often lasting until the first frost, is one of its most attractive qualities. These flowers are not only visually striking but also perfectly designed for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which can easily access their nectar.

When and How to Water Your Salvia Amistad 

When it comes to watering Salvia Amistad, it is essential to strike a balance to prevent overwatering or underwatering. Salvia plants prefer well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging the roots, which can lead to root rot. It's crucial to water the plant deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent issues like wilting or yellowing leaves. 

In the spring and summer, during the growing season, Amistad Salvias may need more frequent watering, especially during hot and dry periods. However, in the winter months or during dormancy, watering frequency should be reduced to prevent waterlogged soil. 

Observing the plant's leaves can also provide clues about its watering needs. If the leaves start to droop or look wilted, it may be a sign that the plant needs water. On the other hand, yellowing or browning leaves could indicate overwatering. By understanding the watering needs of Salvia Amistad and paying attention to the plant's signals, you can help ensure its health and longevity in your garden. 

Light Requirements – Where to Put Salvia Amistad 

When growing indoors, your Salvia Amistad thrives in bright, indirect light for at least 4-6 hours a day. Place the plant near a sunny window where it can receive ample sunlight without being exposed to direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.

If natural light is insufficient, supplement with grow lights to ensure the plant receives the necessary light levels.

For outdoor cultivation, this Salvia flourishes in full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location where it can bask in at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily.

Ensure the plant is shielded from strong winds, especially in regions with intense sunlight, to prevent drying out and stress on the plant.

When transitioning Salvia Amistad from indoor to outdoor settings, acclimate the plant gradually to prevent shock.

Start by placing it in a partially shaded area outdoors, then gradually expose it to more sunlight over a few days to help the plant adjust to the increased light levels. 

Optimal Soil & fertilizer Needs 

The Salvia Amistad prefers sandy, well-drained soil, as excess moisture can promote root and stem rot. A good potting mix for indoor plants can consist of a blend of potting soil, perlite, and compost to promote proper drainage and aeration. Planet Desert has specialized potting soil that includes an organic substrate with mycorrhizae to help with the growth of a healthy root system to help your plants thrive. As an okay alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil.  

For fertilization, Salvia Amistad benefits from a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble NPK fertilizer formulated for flowering plants. During the growing season in spring, feed the plant every 4-6 weeks to support healthy growth and abundant blooms. It's essential to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid overfertilization, which can harm the plant. 

When applying fertilizer, water the plant before and after to help the nutrients penetrate the soil and reach the plant's roots effectively. Additionally, consider using a slow-release fertilizer in the soil at the beginning of the growing season to provide a steady supply of nutrients over time. By providing Salvia Amistad with the right soil conditions and a proper fertilization regimen, you can help your plant thrive and flourish, showcasing its stunning flowers and lush foliage. 

Hardiness Zones & More

When growing indoors, Salvia Amistad prefers a temperature range between 60-75°F. It thrives in average room temperature conditions and should be protected from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can stress the plant. Maintaining a moderate humidity level of around 40-50% can also benefit the plant, especially during the drier winter months when indoor air tends to be less humid. 

For outdoor cultivation, Salvia Amistad is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 8-11. These zones typically experience milder winters, which are ideal for the plant's growth and survival. In these zones, the plant can be grown as a perennial, returning year after year. Make sure you use well-drained soil and protect the plant from frost during colder months to prevent damage.

When growing Salvia Amistad in outdoor settings, monitor the temperature and protect the plant during extreme weather conditions. During hot summer days, provide some afternoon shade to prevent stress from intense sunlight. In regions with high humidity, ensure good air circulation around the plant to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. 

Wildlife - Salvis Amistad attracts the following Friendly-Pollinators

Salvia 'Amistad' is a magnet for pollinators, particularly hummingbirds and bees. Its tubular flowers provide easy access to nectar, making it a valuable addition to any wildlife-friendly garden. The long blooming season ensures a consistent food source for pollinators, which is especially beneficial in environments where natural resources may be scarce at certain times of the year. 

Butterflies

Bees

Hummingbirds

Lady Bugs

Multi Pollinators

Other Birds

Toxicity: Salvia 'Amistad' is considered non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for households with dogs, cats, and birds. Its lack of toxicity, combined with its beauty, makes it a worry-free addition to gardens, patios, and even indoor spaces when grown in containers. 

Propagating Salvia Amistad 

Salvia Amistad can be propagated through stem cuttings, which is a common and effective method for expanding your plant collection. To propagate Salvia Amistad, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy, mature plant, ensuring it has at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, humid environment with indirect light. Regularly mist the cutting to maintain moisture levels and monitor its progress as roots develop over a few weeks. Once roots have been established, you can transplant the new plant into a larger container or outdoor garden bed. 

Key Takeaways