Long-flowering hybrid woodland sage with dense spikes of deep indigo-violet flowers from late spring through early summer. Perennial Plant of the Year (USA) 1997 and a benchmark naturalistic-style perennial.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 4–8 | −34.4 °C to −6.7 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H7 | down to −20 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 4–8 | −29 °C to −1 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 2–5 | −10 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Plant in sunny mixed borders — flowers earlier and longer than the species, providing a key early-season bee plant
- Cut back hard after the first flush for a strong second flowering
- Distinct from the base Salvia nemorosa (`salvia-ornamental`) and from ‘Caradonna’ — ‘Mainacht’ has slightly bluer flowers and greener stems
- Drought tolerant once established