Mexican Bush Sage (Salvia leucantha): The Velvety Purple Fall Bloomer

Mexican bush sage is a stunning, shrubby perennial with velvety, purple calyces and white flowers that appear in late summer and fall, creating a striking two-tone effect. The gray-green, aromatic foliage is soft and woolly. Native to Mexico, Salvia leucantha is a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies in the autumn garden.

Growing Conditions

Full sun, well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established. Cut back hard in late winter to 12 inches for bushy growth. In zones 8-10, it's perennial; zone 7 with mulch; cooler zones, grow as annual. It dislikes wet winter soil.

Landscape Uses

Plant in masses for a purple haze effect. Combine with ornamental grasses, fall asters, and goldenrod. The cultivar 'Santa Barbara' is more compact. Excellent cut flower—calyces hold color.

Taxonomic Profile