'Purpurascens' Purple Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Purpurascens'): Steely-Purple Foliage

'Purpurascens' Sage: Steely-Purple Foliage with Culinary Excellence

Salvia officinalis 'Purpurascens' features leaves suffused with steely-gray purple, forming a 1.5-foot-tall and wide bush. Lavender-purple flower spikes appear in early to mid-summer. Combines striking ornamental foliage with the classic pungent sage flavor. Tolerates alkaline soils but cannot survive wet winter conditions.

Foliage Star

• Steely-gray purple foliage—highly ornamental
• Compact habit (1.5 ft. tall and wide)
• Classic sage flavor and aroma
• Lavender-purple flower spikes
• Deer, drought, frost tolerant
• Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun only (note: source says full shade only—likely error; sages need sun)
• Soil: Moist but well-drained; tolerates alkaline
• Water: Dry to medium
• Maintenance: Low

Propagation

Divide in spring; take cuttings spring through fall.

Potential Issues

Root rot in wet soils. Otherwise generally trouble-free.

Quick Reference

Height/Spread:	1–3 ft.
Bloom Time:	Early summer, summer
Flower Color:	Purple
Foliage:	Steely-gray purple
Tolerances:	Deer, drought, frost
Uses:	Borders, containers, cut/dried flowers, groundcover, herb gardens