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Perennial- Hummingbird Sage

  • Salvia spathacea The Ruth Bancroft Garden
    Common Name: Hummingbird Sage 

    Botanical Name: Salvia spathacea

    Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)

    Description:  Evergreen perennial; native to coastal ranges in California

    Sun:  Partial shade

    Water: Drought tolerant but prefers moderate water

    Soil:  Prefers rich soil with good drainage

    Habit and form:  Foliage grows to 1 to 2 feet high and 3 to 4 feet wide; flower stems rise 2 to 3 feet above foliage

    Flower type:  Tubular flowers and brachts on tall stems; brachts remain for weeks after blooms fade

    Flower color & bloom season:  Magenta, red, or rosy pink flowers depending on variety; blooms in spring and again in fall

    Uses, if any, for plant and/or flowers:  Attractive to hummingbirds

    Pruning time & method: Prune to new growth in late winter or early spring; can pinch or cut back lightly back to keep tidy year-round

    Maintenance tips:  Spreads by rhizomes (thickened underground stem)