Cathedral® White - Salvia Farinacea

Cathedral® White is a white-flowered selection of mealycup sage, with upright flower spikes above aromatic green foliage. It adds a clean vertical accent to sunny beds and mixed containers, while the flowers support bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. [Penn State Trial Gardens](https://agsci.psu.edu/flower-trials/trial-year/2017/plant-name/salviafarinacea-cathedral-white) identifies the white Cathedral selection; [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/salvia-farinacea/) describes the species’ garden performance and care. ## Flowers and garden use The white flower spikes suit borders, annual beds and cut-flower arrangements. Plants generally grow 12–18 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide. Mealycup sage has a long flowering season and an upright, branching form that can provide height among lower annuals. The Cathedral series is bred for uniformity and early flowering, and is also used in mixed containers. ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun and well-drained soil. The species prefers moist soil but tolerates dry clay once established. It is perennial in warmer regions and often grown as an annual where winter temperatures fall below its hardiness range. The species profile lists clay, loam and sandy soil textures and USDA zones 8–10. ## Maintenance Water regularly while plants establish and during prolonged dry weather. After a long bloom period, trim back tired stems to encourage compact foliage and renewed growth. Keep good air circulation around the foliage.