Mountain Sage (Salvia regla)

Overview

Salvia regla, known as Mountain Sage or Red Sage, is a large, deciduous shrub native to the mountains of Mexico and Texas. It produces showy, tubular orange-red flowers in late summer to fall, when few other plants bloom. The aromatic, gray-green leaves drop in winter. An important late-season nectar source for hummingbirds.

Taxonomy

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Genus: Salvia
• Species: regla
• Synonyms: Salvia crenata, Salvia deltoidea

Culture

Full sun, well-drained soil, drought tolerant. Grows 4–6 feet tall and wide. Hardy to zone 7 with protection. Prune in late winter. Excellent for xeriscapes, hummingbird gardens, and late-season color.