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.