The pic is S Patens Chilcombe, one of the beautiful healthy Salvias I got from FBTS. I haven't grown any of the S Patens before but they looked so beautiful I wanted to try them. Besides this one I ordered the Blue Angel, Oxford Blue, Elk Baby Blue. I also ordered a Large Form, which lo and behold ended up being the white flowering variety, "White Trophy" (there were no buds or blooms when it arrived so didn't realize until the white buds appeared). Of course I contacted FBTS and with their wonderful customer service replied right away and will be sending the "Large Form" (which has the blue flowers) along with my next order which ships the week of June 5. White is a color that I usually avoid, in part because in my nursing days I had to wear all white for years. But the S Patens blooms are so large and beautiful, I don't mind the white. I am still hoping to get the "Cambridge Blue" when they are back in stock. They aren't hardy in my zone but I will collect seeds, take cuttings, or gladly purchase them as annuals. I love the color and texture of the foliage too! I am so grateful to have FBTS with their amazing large variety of Salvias (as well as great other plants)!

Very pretty!

FYI, Salvia patens makes tubers that can be stored like Dahlias over winter. I've not done it but you should be able to google for more info about it.

I have done it and it works. Patens is finicky in the hot and humid east but you can't let them dry out. Good luck, they are a real challenge.

Thanks Ward and Danita for the tips. Yes I did read about the tubers, that could be an option as well. I do think I have a good spot where they will be happy but won't know completely until I can get them in the ground (which may be a couple days after about 6 inches of rain and storms with more expected today and into tomorrow.

@jg0613

Beautiful! Here's the link to post pics. Gentian Sage (Salvia patens 'Chilcombe')