A fragrant evergreen perennial that grows up to five feet tall and eight feet wide. The foliage is silver with soft, gray-white leaves of white. The white flowers with a little lavender bloom April through July. This sage can take up to three years to reach a mature size.
The leaves are commonly used for incense. Drop one in a glass of cool water each day, or make a calming tea.
Apiana requires no pruning but you can remove the older flower stalks as they bloom out.
Family Name
Lamiaceae
Species Name
Salvia apiana
Common Name
White sage
Native to
California
Plant Type
Perennial shrub
Height x Width
3-5′ x 4-8′
Growth Habit
Mounding, shrubby
Growth Rate
Fast, moderate
Sun Exposure
Full
Water Requirement
Low
Soil Type
Fast draining
Flower Color
White
Flowering Months
Spring and Early to mid summer
Evergreen/Deciduous
Evergreen, some summer dormancy
Fragrant
Yes
Cold Hardy to
0 F
Attracts pollinators
Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Container Plant
No
Erosion Control
Yes
Bank Stabilization
Yes
Fire Resistant
Yes
Deer resistant
Yes
Local plant
Yes
– Plant in full sun to light shade
– Best in well-drained soil, tolerates sand and clay
– Attracts birds, hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies
– Drought tolerant once established
– Fire resistant
– Great for erosion control and bank stabilization
