Planting notes. Salvia azurea will gently self-sow, but what's even more fun is to gather its small seeds and sow them yourself indoors over winter. You'll know when to gather seeds by the brown color of the outer pod (as seen here). The seeds easily germinate without any treatment, and the leaves are an aromatic delight in cold January as you get a head start for spring planting. Cut it back 50 percent just once before July 4 for a bushier and shorter habit, or leave it alone for the tall spikes that hummingbirds prefer.More: Keep Your Garden on Point With Spikes of Purple

Growing blue sage

Time to collect seeds

when to cut it back

seeding

Common names: Blue sage, pitcher sage, sage Botanical name: Salvia azurea USDA zones: 4 to 9 (find your zone) Water requirement: Tolerates drought; prefers regular water in well-drained clay, sandy or rocky soils Light requirement: Full sun to some shade Mature size: 3 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide Benefits and tolerances: Attracts beneficial insects; easy to grow on your own from seeds; deer resistant Seasonal interest: Early to midfall blooms; spent flower heads provide winter interest. When to plant: Early spring to late fall; mulch well in late fall to prevent frost heave.

Great pictures and information about attracting wildlife

Blue sage

blue, easy to grow, small footprint