Autumn sage (Salvia greggii)

Also known as: Red Chihuahuan sage, Gregg salvia

Autumn sage (Salvia greggii) is a perennial shrub that typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 feet. Its tubular flowers, available in hues of red, pink, white, orange, and purple, add vibrant color to the garden. This hardy plant is remarkably low-maintenance, resistant to both drought and common pests. It attracts pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for supporting local wildlife. Additionally, Autumn sage is perfect for use as a colorful border plant or in mixed garden beds, providing extended seasonal interest with its long blooming period.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Autumn sage

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

60 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Red Pink White Purple Yellow Cream Violet

Images of Autumn sage

Quickly Identify Autumn sage

Hardy, woody stature reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in height and width.

Tube-shaped, two-lipped flowers in red, pink, or white hues with subtle fragrance.

Schizocarp fruit with 4 chambers housing small, hard nutlets.

Square, brittle stems with rough texture and grayish-brown color.

Terminal spikes of colorful tubular flowers attracting pollinators like hummingbirds.

Scientific Classification of Autumn sage

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Sages

Species

Autumn sage

Planting and Growing of Autumn sage

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Autumn sage?

Salvia greggii, commonly known as autumn sage, appreciates moderate watering, around 250 milliliters each time. The guiding principle is to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings but not to the point of becoming bone-dry. Water deeply enough that the moisture reaches the root zone, ensuring the soil remains well-hydrated but not soggy.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Autumn sage? ›

What should I do if my Autumn sage is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Autumn sage? ›

How to save an overwatered Autumn sage? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Autumn sage?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Salvia greggii benefits most from full sun exposure but tolerates partial sun conditions well. The ideal light encourages vibrant flower colors, increased foliage density, and a more prolonged blooming season, fostering maximal growth potential.

What is the best lighting condition for Salvia greggii? ›

How can I ensure Salvia greggii receives ideal light throughout the year? ›

What are the benefits of providing Salvia greggii with ideal light? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Autumn sage?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Salvia greggii thrives best in temperatures between 60°F to 75°F. This range ensures that the plant can photosynthesize efficiently, maintain healthy respiration, and conserve energy. Maintaining temperatures within this range promotes vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Regular monitoring can help maintain these optimal conditions for the plant's wellbeing.

What Soil is Best for Autumn sage?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Salvia greggii thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot and ensures healthy growth. This requirement is crucial for avoiding water-logging, allowing the plant to absorb nutrients effectively. Providing nutrient-rich soil benefits Salvia greggii by boosting its overall health and supporting vibrant flowering. A good balance of organic matter helps sustain a nourishing environment. A moderately fertile soil ensures Salvia greggii grows at an optimal rate without an excess of foliage that would detract from its flowering ability. Maintaining balanced fertility keeps the plant vigorous. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Autumn sage?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Salvia greggii, apply liquid fertilizers at half the recommended strength given on the product label. This ensures the plant gets gentle nourishment without the risk of nutrient burn. A balanced liquid fertilizer, for example, 10-10-10 will suffice. When using slow-release granular fertilizers, apply at the rate of about 2 tablespoons per plant per application. This gradual nutrient supply supports healthy growth while avoiding over-fertilization. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Autumn sage?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by removing dead or damaged stems. Trim back leggy branches to encourage a fuller shape. Focus on cutting just above a leaf node, which stimulates new shoots. Maintain an open center for good air circulation. Prune in early spring to shape your plant before new growth begins. Continue light pruning through summer and autumn to encourage repeated blooming by removing spent flowers and thin stems. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Autumn sage plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Collect seeds from mature Salvia greggii plants. Wait until the seed heads are dry and brown, then gently remove them. Extract the seeds by breaking open the seed heads and storing them in a cool, dry place.

Select healthy stems from the Salvia greggii plant, ideally non-flowering ones. Use pruning shears to cut a 4-6 inch piece below a node. Remove lower leaves to reduce water loss, ensuring a couple of leaves remain at the top.

Place the prepared cuttings in potting mix, ensuring the node is buried. Water lightly and cover with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity. Keep in bright, indirect light and mist occasionally until roots form.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Autumn sage plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

It's time to repot Salvia greggii when you notice roots starting to emerge from the drainage holes, or if the plant growth has significantly slowed despite optimal conditions. These are clear signals that the plant has become root-bound.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. This ensures that water doesn't accumulate at the bottom, preventing root rot and promoting healthier root growth, allowing the plant to thrive in its new home.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter, such as a cactus mix. This type of soil prevents waterlogging by allowing excess moisture to escape while retaining enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated.