Lower South
August, 2004
Regional Report
Favorite or New Plant
Mexican Bush Sage
Mexican Bush Sage (Salvia leucantha) is a superb perennial plant that is definitely underutilized in southern landscapes. Native to Mexico, it adapts and is hardy well throughout the lower south (USDA zone 7) if provided good drainage.
From spring to late summer the bush makes an attractive mound of narrow, strappy, gray-green leaves on upright shoots. In late summer through fall, fuzzy, purple blooms appear, creating a stunning show. The blooms are quite popular with hummingbirds. The standard type sage sports a purple calyx with a protruding, white, center flower. It's also available in a form with a purple calyx and purple flower. Mexican bush sage prefers full sun to part shade. The bloom stalks also dry well, retaining a light purple-lavender color.
Web Finds
Landscaping Assistance on the Web
Planning some landscape renovation or additions this fall? Check out the following Web sites from various southern extension sources for lots of great tips and guidance in planning and designing your southern landscape:
Developing the Landscape Plan
Planning the Home Landscape
