Salvia apiana

Common name(s): white sage, sacred sage

Description: evergreen shrub; native to S. California & Baja California with a long history of use for food, medicine, and ceremonies by several First Nations peoples including the Cahuilla and Chumash. Powerfully aromatic foliage and long spikes of white flowers in summer. Very notable as a pollinator plant. Easily damaged by hard frosts and not easy to cultivate in areas with cold winters. 

Height: to 4 ft. Spread: to 6 ft.

Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil -ideally in a light, sandy soil positioned under an awning or evergreen tree that can deflect snow, ice, and rain. 

Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators

Winter Hardiness: to 25 F and below

Drought: adapted to 5 months of summer drought

Distribution: S. California and NW Mexico