Salvia mellifera
Black Sage
Description
This woody shrub has fragrant, dark green leaves with blue, white, or lilac flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. Flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Quail and other birds love the seeds. The reliable California native prefers full sun although it will grow in part shade. It does best in well draining soil. Established plants need very little water, as little as twice a month during the summer. Some varieties can get up to 6' tall and 10' wide. Prostate varieties only reach 1-2' tall and 6' wide with much denser habit, making it a great ground cover.
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
3-6'
Flower Color
Blue, Lavender, White
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
Attracts Bees
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden, Woodland
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Showy Flowers
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Entry, Shrub Border, Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Cut Flowers, Erosion Control, Mass Planting, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Hummingbirds, Butterflies
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.