Chihuahuan Sage
(Leucophyllum laevigatum)
Chihuahuan Sage (Leucophyllum laevigatum)
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Allie_Caulfield
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Photo by: Allie_Caulfield | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: Allie_Caulfield | Publisher: Flickr |








Estimated Native Range
Summary
Leucophyllum laevigatum, commonly known as Chihuahuan Sage, is an evergreen shrub native to the Chihuahuan Desert in Northeastern Mexico, where it thrives in arid conditions with sparse rainfall. This plant is well-adapted to rocky soils and open areas that receive full sunlight. It typically grows to a height and width of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters), forming a compact, rounded shape. Chihuahuan Sage is notable for its silvery-green foliage and the profusion of purple flowers that bloom in response to rainfall during the summer months, providing a striking contrast against the desert landscape.
Chihuahuan Sage is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens. Its showy purple flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity. In cultivation, it is used for ornamental purposes in rock gardens, as a border plant, or as part of a native plant landscape. It requires minimal maintenance once established, needing only full sun and well-drained soil. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to fungal issues if conditions are too humid or wet.CC BY-SA 4.0
Chihuahuan Sage is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens. Its showy purple flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity. In cultivation, it is used for ornamental purposes in rock gardens, as a border plant, or as part of a native plant landscape. It requires minimal maintenance once established, needing only full sun and well-drained soil. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to fungal issues if conditions are too humid or wet.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 3-4 feet
- Width: 3-4 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Purple
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to the Chihuahuan Desert
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Leucophyllum laevigatum, Leucophyllum laevigatum var. laevigatum, Leucophyllum laevigatum var. coahuilense, Leucophyllum laevigatum var. coahuilensis,
GBIF Accepted Name: Leucophyllum laevigatum Standl.