Autumn Sage

Autumn sage is a herbaceous perennial or semi-woody sub-shrub in the mint family native to southwest Texas, through the Chihuahuan Desert, and into San Luis Potosi, Mexico. It grows 2-3 feet tall and wide, typically on rocky slopes at 5,000-9,000 feet elevation. The species features small, mid-green leaves with spicy fragrance and highly variable flowers in pink, red, or white.

Autumn sage prefers full sun but tolerates afternoon shade in hot climates and requires well-drained, often rocky soil. It is drought- and salt-tolerant with low maintenance requirements and attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. Hardy to zones 6a-9b, it blooms spring, summer, and fall; several cultivars are widely available.