Desert purple sage (Salvia dorrii) SAL-vee-ah DOOR-ree-eye Genus:  Salvia Found in the Great Basin deserts of the western U.S., Salvia dorrii is by far one of the most beautiful native Salvia species. A small, woody shrub, it comes into bloom in late spring with short spikes of showy purple bracts and blue flowers. The semievergreen foliage is distinctively silvery gray and highly aromatic. It grows to 18 inches high. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Desert purple sage has aromatic silvery foliage and showy spikes of purple and blue flowers. Care:  Planting desert purple sage in fast-draining, infertile, alkaline soil in full sun is important to long-term success. Lightly prune after flowering. Propagation:  Take cuttings of newer growth at any time, or divide plants in early spring. Problems:  Infrequent, but watch for the occasional whitefly, aphid, or spider mite.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Foliage, Native, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Late Spring Flower Color Blue, Purple Foliage Color Silver/Grey Uses Beds and Borders Style Desert Garden, Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs