Velvet Mexican Bush Sage

Velvet Mexican Bush Sage Salvia leucantha

Velvet sage, also called Mexican bush sage is a perennial in the Lamiaceae family. It is a relative garden newcomer but is seen today gracing the late summer garden across the state. It is only hardy from the lower Piedmont to the coastal plain, and extreme winters may kill it. The flower stalks bear persistent flower bases which are velvety and purplish and short-lived flowers. The specific epithet 'leucantha' comes from the Latin words 'leucos' meaning "white" and 'anthos' meaning flower.

Growing Velvet Mexican Bush Sage

• Thrives in well-draining soil, preferring sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
• Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season.
• Prefers full sun to partial shade, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
• Tolerates high temperatures well but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged heatwaves.
• Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and encourage new growth, removing any dead or leggy growth.
• Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 10.

Shipping Info

Your plant will be shipped with the roots wrapped in plastic and ready to plant upon arrival. The plant will be approximately one foot in height. Planting guidelines will also be included.