Purple Sage
salvia leucophylla
Also known as: ["California Sage","Gray Sage"]
Overview
A drought-tolerant shrub native to California, known for its aromatic gray-green foliage and lavender-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","deer resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Salvia |
| Botanical Name: | Salvia leucophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or slope with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; mimics coastal soil conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s height and width.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–14 days, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Thrives in warm, dry conditions (60–80°F or 15–27°C); prefers mild coastal climates; tolerates brief frosts but may suffer in prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing newly planted or stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; seeds (less common due to variability).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems; cutting back to just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water lightly after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; ensure even moisture distribution without saturating the soil.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress; wilting or necrosis in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage; prolonged cold can lead to dieback or death, especially in wet soil.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., mulch, row covers) in cold climates; ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme drought.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in intense heat; water deeply but infrequently; use mulch to retain soil moisture; increase humidity if grown indoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; discontinue in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; fertilize sparingly (every 6–8 weeks) during active growth; discontinue in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSalvia leucophylla is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSalvia leucophylla is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSalvia leucophylla is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salvia leucophylla suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in coastal conditions due to its salt tolerance.
Q: How often should I water Salvia leucophylla?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.
Q: Does Purple Sage attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, less freque |
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