Chaparral Sage

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 2-5 feet
Spread: 2-5 feet
Flower Color: blue to purplish-blue
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

Chaparral Sage, also known as Salvia clevelandii, is a fragrant, evergreen shrub native to California and northern Baja California. It's valued for its aromatic foliage, attractive flowers, and drought tolerance, making it a popular choice in water-wise and native plant gardens.

One of the key features of Chaparral Sage is its showy, whorled flower spikes that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are typically blue to purplish-blue and are known for attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The bloom period adds a vibrant splash of color to the landscape and provides valuable nectar sources for local wildlife.

The foliage of Chaparral Sage is equally notable. The leaves are gray-green, highly aromatic, and somewhat rough to the touch. When crushed or brushed against, the foliage releases a strong, pleasant fragrance reminiscent of sage and mint. This scent is particularly strong during the warm, dry periods of the year.

Chaparral Sage has a natural, rounded growth habit and can be used in a variety of landscape settings. It's ideal for native plant gardens, xeriscaping, Mediterranean-style landscapes, and as an accent plant in mixed borders. Its aromatic foliage also makes it a desirable addition to herb gardens.

This plant thrives in well-drained soils and is extremely drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for regions with dry climates. It prefers full sun exposure to produce the most abundant blooms and maintain healthy growth.

Overall, Chaparral Sage is appreciated for its fragrant foliage, beautiful blue flowers, and adaptability to dry conditions. Its combination of ornamental and ecological value, along with its low maintenance requirements, makes it a favored choice for gardeners looking to create sustainable and attractive landscapes.