- **Type**: Herbaceous perennial

- **Height**: 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) with flower spikes; foliage about 12 inches (30 cm)

- **Width**: 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm)

- **Growth Habit**: Upright, bushy, forming a dense mound

- **Foliage**:

- Gray-green, lance-shaped leaves, 2 to 4 inches long (5 to 10 cm)

- Slightly wrinkled, aromatic when crushed (mint family characteristic)

- Semi-evergreen in mild winters; dies back in colder zones

- **Flowers**:

- Dense spikes of deep violet-purple to indigo blooms

- Tubular, about 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long, with contrasting dark calyces

- Bloom season: Late spring to early summer (May to June), reblooms with deadheading into fall

- Lightly fragrant, attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

- **Light**: Full sun (6+ hours daily) for best flowering; tolerates light shade

- **Soil**:

- Well-drained, average fertility; adapts to sandy or loamy soils

- Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5 to 7.5)

- **Watering**: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established, avoid overwatering

- **Hardiness**: USDA Zones 4 to 9 (-30°F to 20°F or -34°C to -6°C)

- **Wildlife**: Attracts pollinators (bees, butterflies, hummingbirds); deer and rabbit resistant due to aromatic foliage

- **Care**:

- Deadhead spent spikes to encourage reblooming

- Cut back to 4-6 inches in late fall or early spring for rejuvenation

- Fertilize lightly with a balanced mix (e.g., 10-10-10) in spring

- **Pests/Diseases**:

- Highly resistant; occasional aphids or spider mites possible

- Susceptible to root rot in soggy soil

- **Uses**: Borders, mass plantings, containers, rock gardens, or pollinator gardens

- **Growth Rate**: Moderate; reaches mature size in one season

- **Special Features**:

- Named the 1997 Perennial Plant of the Year by the Perennial Plant Association

- Reliable, long-blooming, and low-maintenance

- Rich color adds depth to garden designs

May Night Salvia’s striking purple spikes and robust nature make it a classic choice for vibrant, easy-care gardens that buzz with pollinators. Let me know if you’d like growing tips or pairing ideas!