Texas Sage
All About the Texas Sage
The Texas sage was originally discovered in the Chihuahuan desert of Mexico, New Mexico and Texas. This plant is also called the Silverleaf and the Texas Ranger, and it is well adapted for the rugged areas it grows in. This sage has gained appeal in the southeast United States as well, but tends not to grow as well in the more humid conditions there.
This plant is a low maintenance addition to your yard, and will pretty much take care of itself after you start it out with extra waterings. It does not do well when planted with artificial fertilizer added. This plant actually grows best if you let it stay a bit “hungry”, as this most closely imitates its natural area and conditions.
The Texas sage grows fairly slowly, but can attain a size of five to eight feet tall. Their shape is generally rounded and compact. Their flowers are shaped like bells. The blossoms will cover the whole plant for a part of the summer season. The plant prefers an area with low humidity, soil that drains well, and lots of sun. It tolerates wind very well, and is not prone to any insect infestations or diseases other than root rot.
The foliage of silver and abundance of flowers makes the Texas sage a great addition to your southwest landscaped area. It works the best as a screen-type plant, or a border plant. It also provides a nice accent in wildflower or perennial gardens. The bloom colors vary from lavender blue to purple, violet blue, pink and white.
To grow a Texas sage, start with a four inch cutting of new growth, pruned back after the plant flowers in the summer. Plant the cuttings in a mixture of sphagnum peat and perlite, and don't overwater the new plant. It will take root in roughly four weeks. You can start these plants from seed, but the size of the plants will vary a lot from one to another. Press the seeds in a moist potting mix and do not cover. Germination will take about four weeks, as with the cutting.
Once the plant is established, don't water too much, since it is used to desert conditions. The rain you get occasionally will be enough. If the plant doesn't bloom right away, don't worry, that is unusual for this plant. The Texas sage will bloom after an hour or so of continuous rain, and the humidity it causes. You'll see buds on your branches a few days after it rains. This plant has shiny and silky-textured leaves, and the flowers really attract the bees. It makes a nice addition to any southwest garden, and will be a hardy plant to enjoy for you and your family.