California Sunset Sage
Salvia jamensis 'California Sunset'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Average to low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A hybrid sage (Salvia greggii x S. microphylla) valued for its long bloom season, heat and drought tolerance, and aromatic, fine-textured foliage. Forms a small, woody sub-shrub. Features bicolored, tubular flowers in shades of apricot, peach, and pale yellow, creating a 'sunset' effect. Blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during root development.
- Transplant young plants after last frost, ensuring proper spacing.
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells to promote healthy growth.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during spring and summer.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth and remove spent blooms.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly but allow soil to dry between watering 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant and promote new growth
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growing season
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not prune in late fall or winter when plant is dormant
- Avoid planting in heavy, waterlogged soils
- Do not forget to mulch to retain moisture
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
California Sunset Sage questions
What zones can California Sunset Sage grow in?
California Sunset 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 California Sunset Sage deer resistant?
Yes — California Sunset Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does California Sunset Sage bloom?
California Sunset Sage typically blooms in summer 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 California Sunset Sage need full sun?
California Sunset Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is California Sunset Sage drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), California Sunset Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Salvia to compare
May Night Sage
Salvia nemorosa 'May Night'
Celestial Blue Sage Wood Sage
Salvia nemorosa 'Celestial Blue'
Marcus Woodland Sage
Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus'
White Profusion Salvia
Salvia x hybrida 'White Profusion'
Lyrical Blues Salvia
Salvia x hybrida 'Lyrical Blues'
Rose Marvel Sage
Salvia nemerosa 'Rose Marvel'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow California Sunset Sage with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
