Salvia mellifera, Black Sage

Black Sage is easy to grow—it likes poor soils and thrives in hot, dry locations. 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 but can reach 6 ft by 10 ft in width, depending on conditions. The small white or pale blue flowers, while not as showy as other salvias, produce enough nectar to be irresistible to bees. This is a plant favored by beekeepers. The wrinkly, dark green leaves are highly aromatic, which means the deer will not browse this plant.

Grows in a variety of different soils, including sandstone, shale and granite. In poorly draining sites, it tends to turn yellow and eventually dies. Prefers sun but tolerates light shade. Can get by on no summer water. One of the only sages native to Marin county.