Black Sage

(Salvia mellifera)

Black Sage (Salvia mellifera)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Salvia mellifera, commonly known as Black Sage, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral of Southern California and northern Baja California, Mexico. This aromatic plant is well-adapted to the Mediterranean climate of its native range, thriving on sunny, dry slopes. It typically grows to a height of 3-5 feet and a width of 3-6 feet. Black Sage has a dark, dense foliage that can appear almost black, especially during periods of drought, which contributes to its common name. From late winter to early summer, it produces whorls of white to pale lavender flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Black Sage is valued for its drought tolerance and aromatic leaves, which are used in traditional herbal remedies and can be harvested for culinary use. Its flowers are not only ornamental but also beneficial for wildlife, providing nectar for native bees and hummingbirds. In cultivation, it is often used for natural landscaping, erosion control, and as a component of native plant gardens. Black Sage prefers full sun exposure and is tolerant of various soil types, provided they have good drainage. It requires little water once established, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Subshrub
  • Height: 3-4.5 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Blue, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Coastal sage scrub and chaparral of Southern California and northern Baja California, Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Seel, Kalifornischer Salbei

Scientific Names: , Salvia mellifera, Audibertia stachyoides, Salvia mellifera subsp. jonesii, Salvia mellifera subsp. revoluta, Salvia mellifera var. jonesii, Audibertia spinulosa, Audibertia spinulosa publ, Audibertiella stachyoides, Ramona stachyoides

GBIF Accepted Name: Salvia mellifera Greene