Species

Salvia leucanthaMexican Bush Sage

4 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Ferpink Mexican Bush Sage

Salvia leucantha 'Ferpink'

The Story

Plant Bio

Salvia leucantha, or Mexican Bush Sage, is a tender perennial shrub noted for its ornamental, long-blooming flowers and aromatic, gray-green foliage. It typically features arching stems with spikes of velvety purple calyces and white corollas, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies from late summer to frost.

'Ferpink', also sold as PINK VELOUR, is distinguished by its vibrant, fuzzy, rose-pink calyces and contrasting white flowers, creating a striking bicolored pink effect. It is generally more compact than the species.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid purple flowers attract pollinators and add color to gardens.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Supports bees and butterflies, promoting local biodiversity.

SpeciesSalvia leucanthaMexican Bush Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring
Water regularly until established, then reduce watering
Place in full sun for optimal flowering
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
Prune after flowering to encourage bushiness
Mulch around base to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage and full sun for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after blooming to maintain shape
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Neglect pruning after flowering ❌
Use heavy soil without drainage ❌
Place in shade ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Violet-flowered borderPollinator-friendly gardenDrought-tolerant shrubbery

Companion Plants

Lavender CoreopsisCalifornia poppy Sedum Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ferpink Mexican Bush Sage questions

What zones can Ferpink Mexican Bush Sage grow in?

Ferpink 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 Ferpink Mexican Bush Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Ferpink Mexican Bush Sage bloom?

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

Does Ferpink Mexican Bush Sage need full sun?

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

Is Ferpink Mexican Bush Sage drought tolerant?

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