Botanical Name: Salvia officinalis 'Purpurascens'
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Common Name: Purple Garden Sage  
Plant photo of: Salvia officinalis 'Purpurascens'
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Water Saving Tip:

Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Shrub, Perennial

 

Height Range

1-3'

 

Flower Color

Blue

 

Flower Season

Summer

 

Leaf Color

Grey Green, Purple

 

Bark Color

Grey

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full

 

Water

Medium

 

Growth Rate

Moderate

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky

 

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

 

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

 

Adverse Factors

Attracts Bees

Design Styles

English Cottage, Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish

 

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage

 

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Summer

 

Location Uses

Entry, Perennial Border, Foundation, Parking Strip, Patio, Raised Planter

 

Special Uses

Filler

 

Attracts Wildlife

Hummingbirds, Butterflies

Information by: Stephanie Duer
Photographer: Linda Engstrom

  • Description

  • Notes

This perennial sage has a mounding, spreading habit growing to about 1 to 2 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. New foliage emerges purple, ages to grey-green, and is highly aromatic. Flowers are blue and appear in May and June. Purple garden sage is semi-evergreen to evergreen. The foliage and flowers are edible. Also attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Grow in full sun and well drained soil. Not particular as to soil type. Pruning hard in late winter keeps growth compact and densely foliaged. A culinary herb.