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What is this plant with blue flowers #919733

Asked October 11, 2025, 4:46 PM EDT

Seen blooming in early October, in an Annapolis neighbor’s yard What is it? Is it native to Maryland?

Anne Arundel County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

This is Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue', and it is considered to be a tender perennial in our area. It is not native, but not considered invasive, and hummingbirds love it! If we have winter conditions where it is well below freezing for many consecutive days, it probably won't return. It may reseed, or you could try saving the seeds and sowing them in the spring. If you have it in a sheltered location, like a southern-facing wall that is protected from wind and with well-draining soil,  that may help preserve it over the winter. The zones it is listed for are 7a-10b. In Anne Arundel Co, depending on your location, it may overwinter! 

You are unlikely to find it this time of year in garden centers, so look for it next late spring /early summer, or ask your neighbor for are seeds and try planting them indoors around late March to relocate outside after frost has passed, or direct sow them after frost in early to mid May. You can find seed planting directions from various seed sources by searching online for "Salvia 'Black and Blue' seed planting". 

Let us know if you have further questions. 

Emily


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