Desert Purple Sage (Salvia dorrii): Aromatic Silver Foliage & Purple-Blue Spikes

Desert Purple Sage: A Great Basin Native for Xeric Gardens

Salvia dorrii is one of the most beautiful native salvias, found in the Great Basin deserts of the western U.S. This small, woody shrub (to 18 inches) blooms in late spring with short spikes of showy purple bracts and blue flowers. Its semi-evergreen foliage is distinctively silvery-gray and highly aromatic. A true desert dweller, it demands fast-draining, infertile, alkaline soil and full sun.

Desert Adapted Excellence

• Aromatic silvery-gray foliage
• Showy purple bracts with blue flowers in late spring
• Small woody shrub to 18 inches
• Requires lean, alkaline, fast-draining soil
• Native to western U.S. deserts
• Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Critical Cultural Needs

• Light: Full sun only
• Soil: Fast-draining, infertile, alkaline—essential for success
• Water: Dry to medium
• Maintenance: Low; light prune after flowering

Propagation

Cuttings of new growth anytime; divide in early spring.

Potential Issues

Infrequent. Occasional whitefly, aphid, or spider mite.

Quick Reference

Height:	1–3 ft.
Bloom Time:	Late spring
Flower Color:	Blue, purple
Foliage:	Silvery-gray, aromatic, semi-evergreen
Native:	Yes (Great Basin)
Uses:	Desert gardens, rock gardens, xeric borders