Salvia mellifera ‘Big Rock Ridge’, Black Sage

Black sage is easy to grow—it likes poor soils and thrives in hot, dry locations, although it will tolerate some shade. It needs little to no water once established. A mature shrub will slowly attain a nice upright shape with a height of about 4–5 feet, depending on conditions. The small white or pale blue flowers, while not terribly showy, produce enough nectar to be irresistible to bees. This is a plant favored by beekeepers. The wrinkly, dark green leaves are highly scented, which means the deer will not browse this plant. One of the only sages native to Marin county, Big Rock Ridge indicates the local source of our stock.