Salvia Leucantha (Mexican Bush Sage)
Regular price
$49.50
Size
Transform Your Garden with Stunning Fall Color and Pollinator Paradise
Salvia leucantha delivers dramatic purple and white flower spikes from late summer through the first frost, filling your garden with rich color precisely when most plants have called it quits. Commonly known as Mexican Bush Sage or velvet sage, this evergreen shrubby perennial produces bicolor flowers with velvety purple sepals and white corollas that last for months - not days. If you want a low-maintenance, drought tolerant plant that looks spectacular well into fall, this Mexican salvia belongs in your landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Extended Blooming Season – Salvia leucantha blooms from late summer to first frost, delivering weeks of continuous purple flowers when other perennials have faded. Flower spikes can reach up to 10 inches long, creating a show that's hard to miss.
-
Drought Tolerant – Once established, this plant tolerates periods of drought and performs best with deep, occasional watering. It is commonly grown in low-water landscapes and is suitable for xeriscape-style planting - perfect for California's dry summers, especially when combined with other California-friendly drought-tolerant shrubs like black sage.
-
Pollinator Magnet – Salvia leucantha is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, providing critical nectar in fall when other food sources dwindle. Bees flock to it too, making your garden a true pollinator paradise.
-
Deer and Rabbit Resistant – Salvia leucantha is resistant to deer and rabbits due to its aromatic foliage, sparing you the frustration of watching wildlife devour your plantings.
-
Low Maintenance – Minimal pruning, modest water needs, and reliable bloom time mean maximum visual impact with minimum effort throughout the growing season.
What Makes It Different
Most fall-blooming plants - asters, mums, sedums - deliver short bursts of flower color before fading. Salvia leucanthaoffers:
-
Velvety Texture – The flowers of Salvia leucantha have a velvety texture unlike anything else in the garden. Rich purple sepals enclose delicate white corollas, creating a bicolor effect with unmatched visual depth. No other species in the mint family offers this plush, tactile quality.
-
Heat Performance – Native to central and eastern Mexico, this plant thrives in warm climates and hot California summers when other perennials wilt and struggle. It handles full sun and heat with ease.
-
Fountain-Like Growth – Graceful arching stems create a natural fountain habit. Salvia leucantha typically grows 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, providing elegant structure without staking or constant shaping. The gray green foliage - lance shaped, silvery-green above and softly downy beneath - adds subtle beauty even before the first bloom appears and pairs beautifully with purple fountain grass for contrasting texture.
How To Have Success With Salvia Leucantha
-
Plant in Spring Establish your salvia in well drained soil with full sun exposure after the last frost. Space plants 3-5 feet apart to allow room for their arching habit. Adding compost at planting time helps roots settle in quickly, especially if you’re also incorporating other California native shrubs like Ceanothus.
-
Summer Growth During the growing season, the plant develops a sturdy framework of gray green leaves and silvery stems. Water deeply once per week during establishment to keep the soil evenly moist, then gradually reduce. The fragrant foliage already begins attracting attention, and you can extend the season further by adding other salvias such as Autumn Sage.
-
Fall Spectacular As late summer arrives, purple and white flower spikes emerge in abundance for months of continuous bloom. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees arrive in droves. The display persists until the first frost - giving you the longest fall color show in the garden.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
-
Hardiness: Winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10; stays evergreen in mild winter areas, may die back to ground in Zone 8
-
Sun Requirements: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates afternoon shade in extremely hot inland areas
-
Soil Needs: Well-drained soil; not particular about soil fertility; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions to prevent stem rot and disease problems
-
Bloom Time: Late summer through first frost
-
Flower Colors: Bicolor - purple sepals with white corollas; cultivars like 'Midnight' and Santa Barbara offer deeper, solid purple flowers
-
Potential Pests: The plant can be susceptible to pests like whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites; good airflow and proper watering reduce risk
-
Additional Uses: Excellent as cut flowers; works beautifully in containers for ornamental purposes and combines well with purple bougainvillea in Mediterranean-style plantings
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners seeking low water, high-impact plants that thrive in drought and deliver extended fall color
-
Garden enthusiasts wanting attractive perennial border plants and pollinator support from hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, perhaps complemented by flowering trees that extend seasonal color
-
Landscapers and designers creating drought-tolerant, wildlife-friendly spaces - the plant is ideal for mass planting or border planting in gardens, mixed borders, and cottage gardens, especially when layered with drought-tolerant shade trees like the California pepper tree
-
Homeowners dealing with deer or rabbit browsing who need a rabbit resistant, reliably beautiful plant and might also appreciate deer-resistant flowering trees like desert willow
If you want a garden that looks stunning through fall without constant watering and fussing, Salvia leucantha fits your needs, especially when paired with evergreen flowering anchors like Southern magnolia and architectural elements such as Mexican fan palms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does it need? During establishment, water deeply about once per week to maintain regular moisture. Once established, Salvia leucantha is drought tolerant and performs best with deep, occasional watering every 2-3 weeks during dry periods. Avoid overwatering in winter.
When should I plant it? Best planted in spring after the last frost for a full season of establishment before bloom time. In mild winter climates, early fall planting also works well.
Will it come back each year? Yes. This herbaceous perennial is winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10. In Zone 8, it may die back to the ground in winter but regrows from the roots in spring. In colder zones, Salvia leucantha can be cut back to ground level and given mulch protection in protected locations, or grown as an annual.
How do I care for it in winter? Leave stems in place through winter to protect the crown. Cut back old foliage in early spring for fresh growth. Hard prune annually to maintain a full, attractive shape and encourage vigorous new stems. You can also prune lightly during the growing season to remove spent flower spikes and extend bloom.
Does it spread or self-seed? Salvia leucantha forms well-behaved clumps rather than spreading aggressively. It does not tend to self-seed invasively, making it a garden-friendly choice.
Can I grow it in a container? Absolutely. Salvia leucantha is commonly grown in containers for ornamental purposes. Use a large pot with excellent drainage and full sun water exposure for best results.
Ready to Create Your Fall Garden Paradise?
Stop settling for a garden that fades after summer. Choose Salvia leucantha - Mexican Bush Sage - and enjoy months of rich purple flowers, graceful gray green foliage, and a yard buzzing with hummingbirds and butterflies.
Pair it with Yardwork's expert consultation and soil testing services to ensure your plant thrives from day one. We ship across California with care to protect every velvety bloom.
Transform Your Garden with Stunning Fall Color and Pollinator Paradise
Salvia leucantha delivers dramatic purple and white flower spikes from late summer through the first frost, filling your garden with rich color precisely when most plants have called it quits. Commonly known as Mexican Bush Sage or velvet sage, this evergreen shrubby perennial produces bicolor flowers with velvety purple sepals and white corollas that last for months - not days. If you want a low-maintenance, drought tolerant plant that looks spectacular well into fall, this Mexican salvia belongs in your landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Extended Blooming Season – Salvia leucantha blooms from late summer to first frost, delivering weeks of continuous purple flowers when other perennials have faded. Flower spikes can reach up to 10 inches long, creating a show that's hard to miss.
-
Drought Tolerant – Once established, this plant tolerates periods of drought and performs best with deep, occasional watering. It is commonly grown in low-water landscapes and is suitable for xeriscape-style planting - perfect for California's dry summers, especially when combined with other California-friendly drought-tolerant shrubs like black sage.
-
Pollinator Magnet – Salvia leucantha is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, providing critical nectar in fall when other food sources dwindle. Bees flock to it too, making your garden a true pollinator paradise.
-
Deer and Rabbit Resistant – Salvia leucantha is resistant to deer and rabbits due to its aromatic foliage, sparing you the frustration of watching wildlife devour your plantings.
-
Low Maintenance – Minimal pruning, modest water needs, and reliable bloom time mean maximum visual impact with minimum effort throughout the growing season.
What Makes It Different
Most fall-blooming plants - asters, mums, sedums - deliver short bursts of flower color before fading. Salvia leucanthaoffers:
-
Velvety Texture – The flowers of Salvia leucantha have a velvety texture unlike anything else in the garden. Rich purple sepals enclose delicate white corollas, creating a bicolor effect with unmatched visual depth. No other species in the mint family offers this plush, tactile quality.
-
Heat Performance – Native to central and eastern Mexico, this plant thrives in warm climates and hot California summers when other perennials wilt and struggle. It handles full sun and heat with ease.
-
Fountain-Like Growth – Graceful arching stems create a natural fountain habit. Salvia leucantha typically grows 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, providing elegant structure without staking or constant shaping. The gray green foliage - lance shaped, silvery-green above and softly downy beneath - adds subtle beauty even before the first bloom appears and pairs beautifully with purple fountain grass for contrasting texture.
How To Have Success With Salvia Leucantha
-
Plant in Spring Establish your salvia in well drained soil with full sun exposure after the last frost. Space plants 3-5 feet apart to allow room for their arching habit. Adding compost at planting time helps roots settle in quickly, especially if you’re also incorporating other California native shrubs like Ceanothus.
-
Summer Growth During the growing season, the plant develops a sturdy framework of gray green leaves and silvery stems. Water deeply once per week during establishment to keep the soil evenly moist, then gradually reduce. The fragrant foliage already begins attracting attention, and you can extend the season further by adding other salvias such as Autumn Sage.
-
Fall Spectacular As late summer arrives, purple and white flower spikes emerge in abundance for months of continuous bloom. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees arrive in droves. The display persists until the first frost - giving you the longest fall color show in the garden.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
-
Hardiness: Winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10; stays evergreen in mild winter areas, may die back to ground in Zone 8
-
Sun Requirements: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates afternoon shade in extremely hot inland areas
-
Soil Needs: Well-drained soil; not particular about soil fertility; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions to prevent stem rot and disease problems
-
Bloom Time: Late summer through first frost
-
Flower Colors: Bicolor - purple sepals with white corollas; cultivars like 'Midnight' and Santa Barbara offer deeper, solid purple flowers
-
Potential Pests: The plant can be susceptible to pests like whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites; good airflow and proper watering reduce risk
-
Additional Uses: Excellent as cut flowers; works beautifully in containers for ornamental purposes and combines well with purple bougainvillea in Mediterranean-style plantings
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners seeking low water, high-impact plants that thrive in drought and deliver extended fall color
-
Garden enthusiasts wanting attractive perennial border plants and pollinator support from hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, perhaps complemented by flowering trees that extend seasonal color
-
Landscapers and designers creating drought-tolerant, wildlife-friendly spaces - the plant is ideal for mass planting or border planting in gardens, mixed borders, and cottage gardens, especially when layered with drought-tolerant shade trees like the California pepper tree
-
Homeowners dealing with deer or rabbit browsing who need a rabbit resistant, reliably beautiful plant and might also appreciate deer-resistant flowering trees like desert willow
If you want a garden that looks stunning through fall without constant watering and fussing, Salvia leucantha fits your needs, especially when paired with evergreen flowering anchors like Southern magnolia and architectural elements such as Mexican fan palms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does it need? During establishment, water deeply about once per week to maintain regular moisture. Once established, Salvia leucantha is drought tolerant and performs best with deep, occasional watering every 2-3 weeks during dry periods. Avoid overwatering in winter.
When should I plant it? Best planted in spring after the last frost for a full season of establishment before bloom time. In mild winter climates, early fall planting also works well.
Will it come back each year? Yes. This herbaceous perennial is winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10. In Zone 8, it may die back to the ground in winter but regrows from the roots in spring. In colder zones, Salvia leucantha can be cut back to ground level and given mulch protection in protected locations, or grown as an annual.
How do I care for it in winter? Leave stems in place through winter to protect the crown. Cut back old foliage in early spring for fresh growth. Hard prune annually to maintain a full, attractive shape and encourage vigorous new stems. You can also prune lightly during the growing season to remove spent flower spikes and extend bloom.
Does it spread or self-seed? Salvia leucantha forms well-behaved clumps rather than spreading aggressively. It does not tend to self-seed invasively, making it a garden-friendly choice.
Can I grow it in a container? Absolutely. Salvia leucantha is commonly grown in containers for ornamental purposes. Use a large pot with excellent drainage and full sun water exposure for best results.
Ready to Create Your Fall Garden Paradise?
Stop settling for a garden that fades after summer. Choose Salvia leucantha - Mexican Bush Sage - and enjoy months of rich purple flowers, graceful gray green foliage, and a yard buzzing with hummingbirds and butterflies.
Pair it with Yardwork's expert consultation and soil testing services to ensure your plant thrives from day one. We ship across California with care to protect every velvety bloom.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Salvia Leucantha (Mexican Bush Sage)
Regular price
$49.50
Size
Transform Your Garden with Stunning Fall Color and Pollinator Paradise
Salvia leucantha delivers dramatic purple and white flower spikes from late summer through the first frost, filling your garden with rich color precisely when most plants have called it quits. Commonly known as Mexican Bush Sage or velvet sage, this evergreen shrubby perennial produces bicolor flowers with velvety purple sepals and white corollas that last for months - not days. If you want a low-maintenance, drought tolerant plant that looks spectacular well into fall, this Mexican salvia belongs in your landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Extended Blooming Season – Salvia leucantha blooms from late summer to first frost, delivering weeks of continuous purple flowers when other perennials have faded. Flower spikes can reach up to 10 inches long, creating a show that's hard to miss.
-
Drought Tolerant – Once established, this plant tolerates periods of drought and performs best with deep, occasional watering. It is commonly grown in low-water landscapes and is suitable for xeriscape-style planting - perfect for California's dry summers, especially when combined with other California-friendly drought-tolerant shrubs like black sage.
-
Pollinator Magnet – Salvia leucantha is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, providing critical nectar in fall when other food sources dwindle. Bees flock to it too, making your garden a true pollinator paradise.
-
Deer and Rabbit Resistant – Salvia leucantha is resistant to deer and rabbits due to its aromatic foliage, sparing you the frustration of watching wildlife devour your plantings.
-
Low Maintenance – Minimal pruning, modest water needs, and reliable bloom time mean maximum visual impact with minimum effort throughout the growing season.
What Makes It Different
Most fall-blooming plants - asters, mums, sedums - deliver short bursts of flower color before fading. Salvia leucanthaoffers:
-
Velvety Texture – The flowers of Salvia leucantha have a velvety texture unlike anything else in the garden. Rich purple sepals enclose delicate white corollas, creating a bicolor effect with unmatched visual depth. No other species in the mint family offers this plush, tactile quality.
-
Heat Performance – Native to central and eastern Mexico, this plant thrives in warm climates and hot California summers when other perennials wilt and struggle. It handles full sun and heat with ease.
-
Fountain-Like Growth – Graceful arching stems create a natural fountain habit. Salvia leucantha typically grows 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, providing elegant structure without staking or constant shaping. The gray green foliage - lance shaped, silvery-green above and softly downy beneath - adds subtle beauty even before the first bloom appears and pairs beautifully with purple fountain grass for contrasting texture.
How To Have Success With Salvia Leucantha
-
Plant in Spring Establish your salvia in well drained soil with full sun exposure after the last frost. Space plants 3-5 feet apart to allow room for their arching habit. Adding compost at planting time helps roots settle in quickly, especially if you’re also incorporating other California native shrubs like Ceanothus.
-
Summer Growth During the growing season, the plant develops a sturdy framework of gray green leaves and silvery stems. Water deeply once per week during establishment to keep the soil evenly moist, then gradually reduce. The fragrant foliage already begins attracting attention, and you can extend the season further by adding other salvias such as Autumn Sage.
-
Fall Spectacular As late summer arrives, purple and white flower spikes emerge in abundance for months of continuous bloom. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees arrive in droves. The display persists until the first frost - giving you the longest fall color show in the garden.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
-
Hardiness: Winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10; stays evergreen in mild winter areas, may die back to ground in Zone 8
-
Sun Requirements: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates afternoon shade in extremely hot inland areas
-
Soil Needs: Well-drained soil; not particular about soil fertility; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions to prevent stem rot and disease problems
-
Bloom Time: Late summer through first frost
-
Flower Colors: Bicolor - purple sepals with white corollas; cultivars like 'Midnight' and Santa Barbara offer deeper, solid purple flowers
-
Potential Pests: The plant can be susceptible to pests like whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites; good airflow and proper watering reduce risk
-
Additional Uses: Excellent as cut flowers; works beautifully in containers for ornamental purposes and combines well with purple bougainvillea in Mediterranean-style plantings
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners seeking low water, high-impact plants that thrive in drought and deliver extended fall color
-
Garden enthusiasts wanting attractive perennial border plants and pollinator support from hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, perhaps complemented by flowering trees that extend seasonal color
-
Landscapers and designers creating drought-tolerant, wildlife-friendly spaces - the plant is ideal for mass planting or border planting in gardens, mixed borders, and cottage gardens, especially when layered with drought-tolerant shade trees like the California pepper tree
-
Homeowners dealing with deer or rabbit browsing who need a rabbit resistant, reliably beautiful plant and might also appreciate deer-resistant flowering trees like desert willow
If you want a garden that looks stunning through fall without constant watering and fussing, Salvia leucantha fits your needs, especially when paired with evergreen flowering anchors like Southern magnolia and architectural elements such as Mexican fan palms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does it need? During establishment, water deeply about once per week to maintain regular moisture. Once established, Salvia leucantha is drought tolerant and performs best with deep, occasional watering every 2-3 weeks during dry periods. Avoid overwatering in winter.
When should I plant it? Best planted in spring after the last frost for a full season of establishment before bloom time. In mild winter climates, early fall planting also works well.
Will it come back each year? Yes. This herbaceous perennial is winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10. In Zone 8, it may die back to the ground in winter but regrows from the roots in spring. In colder zones, Salvia leucantha can be cut back to ground level and given mulch protection in protected locations, or grown as an annual.
How do I care for it in winter? Leave stems in place through winter to protect the crown. Cut back old foliage in early spring for fresh growth. Hard prune annually to maintain a full, attractive shape and encourage vigorous new stems. You can also prune lightly during the growing season to remove spent flower spikes and extend bloom.
Does it spread or self-seed? Salvia leucantha forms well-behaved clumps rather than spreading aggressively. It does not tend to self-seed invasively, making it a garden-friendly choice.
Can I grow it in a container? Absolutely. Salvia leucantha is commonly grown in containers for ornamental purposes. Use a large pot with excellent drainage and full sun water exposure for best results.
Ready to Create Your Fall Garden Paradise?
Stop settling for a garden that fades after summer. Choose Salvia leucantha - Mexican Bush Sage - and enjoy months of rich purple flowers, graceful gray green foliage, and a yard buzzing with hummingbirds and butterflies.
Pair it with Yardwork's expert consultation and soil testing services to ensure your plant thrives from day one. We ship across California with care to protect every velvety bloom.
Transform Your Garden with Stunning Fall Color and Pollinator Paradise
Salvia leucantha delivers dramatic purple and white flower spikes from late summer through the first frost, filling your garden with rich color precisely when most plants have called it quits. Commonly known as Mexican Bush Sage or velvet sage, this evergreen shrubby perennial produces bicolor flowers with velvety purple sepals and white corollas that last for months - not days. If you want a low-maintenance, drought tolerant plant that looks spectacular well into fall, this Mexican salvia belongs in your landscape.
Why You'll Love It
-
Extended Blooming Season – Salvia leucantha blooms from late summer to first frost, delivering weeks of continuous purple flowers when other perennials have faded. Flower spikes can reach up to 10 inches long, creating a show that's hard to miss.
-
Drought Tolerant – Once established, this plant tolerates periods of drought and performs best with deep, occasional watering. It is commonly grown in low-water landscapes and is suitable for xeriscape-style planting - perfect for California's dry summers, especially when combined with other California-friendly drought-tolerant shrubs like black sage.
-
Pollinator Magnet – Salvia leucantha is attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, providing critical nectar in fall when other food sources dwindle. Bees flock to it too, making your garden a true pollinator paradise.
-
Deer and Rabbit Resistant – Salvia leucantha is resistant to deer and rabbits due to its aromatic foliage, sparing you the frustration of watching wildlife devour your plantings.
-
Low Maintenance – Minimal pruning, modest water needs, and reliable bloom time mean maximum visual impact with minimum effort throughout the growing season.
What Makes It Different
Most fall-blooming plants - asters, mums, sedums - deliver short bursts of flower color before fading. Salvia leucanthaoffers:
-
Velvety Texture – The flowers of Salvia leucantha have a velvety texture unlike anything else in the garden. Rich purple sepals enclose delicate white corollas, creating a bicolor effect with unmatched visual depth. No other species in the mint family offers this plush, tactile quality.
-
Heat Performance – Native to central and eastern Mexico, this plant thrives in warm climates and hot California summers when other perennials wilt and struggle. It handles full sun and heat with ease.
-
Fountain-Like Growth – Graceful arching stems create a natural fountain habit. Salvia leucantha typically grows 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide, providing elegant structure without staking or constant shaping. The gray green foliage - lance shaped, silvery-green above and softly downy beneath - adds subtle beauty even before the first bloom appears and pairs beautifully with purple fountain grass for contrasting texture.
How To Have Success With Salvia Leucantha
-
Plant in Spring Establish your salvia in well drained soil with full sun exposure after the last frost. Space plants 3-5 feet apart to allow room for their arching habit. Adding compost at planting time helps roots settle in quickly, especially if you’re also incorporating other California native shrubs like Ceanothus.
-
Summer Growth During the growing season, the plant develops a sturdy framework of gray green leaves and silvery stems. Water deeply once per week during establishment to keep the soil evenly moist, then gradually reduce. The fragrant foliage already begins attracting attention, and you can extend the season further by adding other salvias such as Autumn Sage.
-
Fall Spectacular As late summer arrives, purple and white flower spikes emerge in abundance for months of continuous bloom. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees arrive in droves. The display persists until the first frost - giving you the longest fall color show in the garden.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: 2-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide
-
Hardiness: Winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10; stays evergreen in mild winter areas, may die back to ground in Zone 8
-
Sun Requirements: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates afternoon shade in extremely hot inland areas
-
Soil Needs: Well-drained soil; not particular about soil fertility; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged conditions to prevent stem rot and disease problems
-
Bloom Time: Late summer through first frost
-
Flower Colors: Bicolor - purple sepals with white corollas; cultivars like 'Midnight' and Santa Barbara offer deeper, solid purple flowers
-
Potential Pests: The plant can be susceptible to pests like whiteflies, mealybugs, and spider mites; good airflow and proper watering reduce risk
-
Additional Uses: Excellent as cut flowers; works beautifully in containers for ornamental purposes and combines well with purple bougainvillea in Mediterranean-style plantings
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
California homeowners seeking low water, high-impact plants that thrive in drought and deliver extended fall color
-
Garden enthusiasts wanting attractive perennial border plants and pollinator support from hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, perhaps complemented by flowering trees that extend seasonal color
-
Landscapers and designers creating drought-tolerant, wildlife-friendly spaces - the plant is ideal for mass planting or border planting in gardens, mixed borders, and cottage gardens, especially when layered with drought-tolerant shade trees like the California pepper tree
-
Homeowners dealing with deer or rabbit browsing who need a rabbit resistant, reliably beautiful plant and might also appreciate deer-resistant flowering trees like desert willow
If you want a garden that looks stunning through fall without constant watering and fussing, Salvia leucantha fits your needs, especially when paired with evergreen flowering anchors like Southern magnolia and architectural elements such as Mexican fan palms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does it need? During establishment, water deeply about once per week to maintain regular moisture. Once established, Salvia leucantha is drought tolerant and performs best with deep, occasional watering every 2-3 weeks during dry periods. Avoid overwatering in winter.
When should I plant it? Best planted in spring after the last frost for a full season of establishment before bloom time. In mild winter climates, early fall planting also works well.
Will it come back each year? Yes. This herbaceous perennial is winter hardy in USDA Zones 8-10. In Zone 8, it may die back to the ground in winter but regrows from the roots in spring. In colder zones, Salvia leucantha can be cut back to ground level and given mulch protection in protected locations, or grown as an annual.
How do I care for it in winter? Leave stems in place through winter to protect the crown. Cut back old foliage in early spring for fresh growth. Hard prune annually to maintain a full, attractive shape and encourage vigorous new stems. You can also prune lightly during the growing season to remove spent flower spikes and extend bloom.
Does it spread or self-seed? Salvia leucantha forms well-behaved clumps rather than spreading aggressively. It does not tend to self-seed invasively, making it a garden-friendly choice.
Can I grow it in a container? Absolutely. Salvia leucantha is commonly grown in containers for ornamental purposes. Use a large pot with excellent drainage and full sun water exposure for best results.
Ready to Create Your Fall Garden Paradise?
Stop settling for a garden that fades after summer. Choose Salvia leucantha - Mexican Bush Sage - and enjoy months of rich purple flowers, graceful gray green foliage, and a yard buzzing with hummingbirds and butterflies.
Pair it with Yardwork's expert consultation and soil testing services to ensure your plant thrives from day one. We ship across California with care to protect every velvety bloom.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Thousands of Healthy Plants Delivered
Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.