Mexican Pitcher Sage

(Lepechinia hastata)

Mexican Pitcher Sage (Lepechinia hastata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lepechinia hastata, commonly known as Mexican Pitcher Sage, is an evergreen to semi-deciduous perennial herb natitve to Mexican Pacific Islands and Northwest Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters) and a width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). The plant has a bushy habit with upright stems and features lance-shaped, aromatic leaves. During the summer and fall, it produces spikes of tubular flowers that are pink to purple, which are attractive to hummingbirds and beneficial insects.

Mexican Pitcher Sage is valued for its drought tolerance and the ornamental quality of its flowers, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping, wildlife gardens, and as an accent plant in Mediterranean-style landscapes. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-draining soil, although it can tolerate a range of soil types. While it can survive with low water once established, moderate irrigation will keep it looking its best. This plant is relatively low-maintenance, but it can benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and promote denser foliage.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 4-5 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to chaparral and oak woodlands of California and Baja California

Other Names

Common Names: Pitcher Sage, Pakaha

Scientific Names: , Lepechinia hastata, Sphacele hastata, Alguelaguen hastatum, Alguelagum hastatum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Lepechinia hastata (A.Gray) Epling