Salvia mellifera - Black Sage

Description

An erect, very aromatic sage which grows to 5' tall. The foliage is a medium green and the numerous flowers are in compact whorled clusters, white to pale blue and lilac, April to May. Plant in a sunny exposure with well-drained soil. Little or no summer water. Prune back after flowering. Useful for covering dry banks and to control soil erosion. Common on foothills and dry lower mountain slopes from Contra Costa Co. to northern Baja. Attractive to bees. Deer avoid it due to its strong scent.