Deep violet-purple flowers spring from almost black bracts atop friendship sage (Salvia 'Amistad'). This large, nonhardy perennial comes into flower in midsummer and continues blooming up to frost. It is best used as an annual in Chicago-area gardens. Plant this salvia in sunny locations that will accommodate its 4-foot size. Discovered at a plant sale in Buenos Aires, Argentina, this sage attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.