White Sage (Salvia apiana), also known as Sacred Sage, is an aromatic subshrub native to Southern California's coastal sage scrub region. It features silvery-white leaves in a 2-foot mound, with flowering wands of whitish-lavender flowers rising up to 5 feet high. This evergreen shrub is deeply rooted in the cultures of Indigenous communities, who use it in traditional medicine and ceremonies. White Sage is a valuable pollinator plant, attracting a variety of bees and hummingbirds.
Why Choose White Sage?
- Pollinator Magnet: The small white flowers, with "apiana" meaning "of or belonging to bees" in Latin, are a favorite of carpenter bees, bumblebees, and hummingbirds.
- Host Plant: Serves as a host plant for the California Pyrausta Moth and Volupial Pyrausta Moth.
- Drought Tolerant: This low-water shrub is drought-adapted and grows best in full sun.
- Fragrant Foliage: The highly aromatic, waxy, gray-green leaves are used for incense and exude a strong fragrance when crushed.
- Pollinator-Safe: Grown non-GMO and free of harmful neonicotinoids, promoting a healthy ecosystem for pollinators and wildlife.
Available in sets of three, six, or 12 plants to suit any garden size.
Planting Tips:
- Location: Plant in full sun with well-draining soil. It is a focal point for a water-wise or dry garden.
- Watering: This is a low-water shrub that is highly drought-adapted.
- Maintenance: Pruning helps keep it neat and compact. Its silvery foliage is beautiful when lit by the moon and night lighting.
For more information on planting, view our How to Plant Your Native Plants guide and other planting tips in the Garden for Wildlife Learning Center.
Add the beauty and aroma of White Sage to your garden—a resilient and culturally significant native shrub that supports bees, hummingbirds, and local wildlife.
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