Species

Salvia greggiiAutumn Sage

18 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Tangerine Sage

Salvia greggii 'Tangerine'

The Story

Plant Bio

A small, bushy, woody-based perennial or sub-shrub with aromatic, small green leaves. Valued for its exceptional heat and drought tolerance and extremely long bloom season.

Distinguished by its profusion of soft, clear tangerine-orange flowers, offering a unique color in the salvia palette. Blooms from spring to frost.

Uses & Benefits:

Salvia gregii Tangerine offers vibrant color and attracts hummingbirds, enhancing garden aesthetics.

Its drought tolerance reduces water needs and maintenance.

Supports pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.

SpeciesSalvia greggiiAutumn Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southwestern U.S. and Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity, taking about 4 weeks to root.
Transplant seedlings after last frost, ensuring full sun exposure.
Water sparingly once established to prevent root rot.
Apply balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during active growth.
Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth and remove dead stems.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during hot, dry periods 🌱
Prune to maintain shape and promote flowering
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer
Provide full sun for vigorous growth
Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Never let the soil stay waterlogged ❌
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flowering
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Refrain from planting in dense shade
Avoid disturbing roots during the growing season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant flower borderDrought-tolerant shrub for sunny gardensColorful container plant

Companion Plants

Lavender Gaillardia Coreopsis Agastache Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tangerine Sage questions

What zones can Tangerine Sage grow in?

Tangerine Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tangerine Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Tangerine Sage bloom?

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

Does Tangerine Sage need full sun?

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

Is Tangerine Sage drought tolerant?

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