The annual Salvia Spectacular returns to the Fullerton Arboretum September 6 & 7, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Potting Shed will present a “Salvia Spectacular”, featuring more than 130 salvia species and varieties for sale. According to the author Betsy Clebsch, “Salvia is derived from the latin word salvare, "to heal," and for centuries salvias have been valued for their medicinal and culinary qualities. Salvias, commonly known as sages, grow throughout temperate and subtropical parts of the world, from sea level to altitudes of more than 11,000 feet (3400 meters). They occur in many forms: perennial, biennial, annual herbs, and evergreen or deciduous shrubs.”

For salvia enthusiasts and gardeners interesting in expanding their gardens, the Potting Shed will feature several unusual varieties. Examples include the Saliva africana-lutea, This beautiful and unusual Sage has rusty orange flowers on a 3 to 5 foot tall, bushy plant. Another is the Salvia chionophylla, also called snowflake sage, which is a superb Chihuahuan native, plus is a relative of the wonderful Saliva chamaedroiydes. This is a 4" high ground cover that also looks great in hanging baskets. Also, the Salvia ‘Indigo Spires’, which is one of the most dependable butterfly magnets you can grow with violet flower spikes that can reach 1 ft or more.

The sale will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free. Check this page again for updates on the 2008 sale.