Also known as Pitcher Sage · 18 saves
Lepechinia
Lepechinia, the genus most gardeners know as pitcher sage. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Lepechinia varieties
3 species of Lepechinia
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Lepechinia in Sow
Save the Lepechinia you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Lepechinia
Whats common across all Lepechinia varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Lepechinia year
- PruneAugust and September100% of varieties
Cut back by 1/3 in late winter/early spring to maintain dense, shrubby shape
- MulchMarch67% of varieties
Apply light layer of mulch in spring to conserve moisture
- PlantMarch67% of varieties
Plant in spring after last frost or in early fall
- DeadheadJune and July67% of varieties
Remove spent flower spikes to tidy the plant appearance
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Prune after flowering to promote bushier growth
Avoid
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain water
- Don’t neglect pruning for a tidy appearance
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Lepechinia
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue on leaves and distorted growth | Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and stippled leaves | Increase humidity and apply insecticidal soap |
| Root Rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves with soggy roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering |
Making more Lepechinia
Cuttings
- Take 4-inch semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip cut ends in rooting hormone.
- Plant in potting mix and mist regularly.
- Keep in warm, bright location for 6 weeks until roots develop.
seed
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in spring, covering lightly.
- Maintain consistent moisture for 2-3 weeks.
- Germination occurs in 2-4 weeks.
Lepechinia questions
How many types of Lepechinia are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Lepechinia varieties. The most popular — ranked by 18 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Lepechinia grow in?
Across its varieties, Lepechinia covers USDA Zones 8–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Lepechinia bloom?
Most Lepechinia varieties bloom in mid-summer, early summer, late spring to summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Lepechinia should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.