perennial

Mexican Bush Sage

Salvia leucantha 'Ferpink PP'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought-tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial or sub-shrub, typically grown as an annual in cold climates. Features lance-shaped, gray-green, wrinkled leaves on arching stems. Known for its long, showy, bicolored flower spikes that bloom from late summer to first frost. 'Ferpink', sold as SANTA BARBARA, is a compact cultivar prized for its vibrant, solid magenta-pink flowers. Unlike the species which typically has white flowers and purple calyces, this variety offers a bold, uniform color display on a smaller, denser plant.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Salvia leucantha Ferpink PP offers vibrant pink flowers that attract pollinators, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Provides nectar for hummingbirds and butterflies, supporting local pollinator populations.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
Water deeply once a week during growing season for healthy growth.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Prune back after flowering to encourage bushiness and new growth.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
Water consistently during dry spells 💧
Prune lightly after blooming to shape the plant ✂️
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged ❌
Prune in late fall or winter ❌
Use heavy, clay-rich soil without amendments ❌
Neglect pruning after flowering ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderFragrant herb gardenColorful perennial bed

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Gaillardia Echinacea Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mexican Bush Sage questions

What zones can Mexican Bush Sage grow in?

Mexican Bush Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Mexican Bush Sage deer resistant?

Yes — Mexican Bush Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Mexican Bush Sage bloom?

Mexican Bush Sage typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mexican Bush Sage need full sun?

Mexican Bush Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Mexican Bush Sage drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mexican Bush Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.