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Maureen Gilmer
Lamiaceae
SALVIA 'Allen Chickering'
Ornamental Sage
This entry has yet to be reviewed and approved by L2G editors.
This gorgeous yet tough dryland sage produces some of the most charming flower spikes that are equally attractive after they bloom. It is a hybrid of two Southern California native species, both highly drought resistant and capable of surviving without rain for up to ten months. Both species and hybrid prefer hot slopes or very well drained porous soils to prevent root rot. This is a semiwoody plant that produces a spreading shrubby form capable of covering a large area over time.
This sage blooms in early spring with the rains and cool weather. The long spikes feature worls of purple blossoms that are irresistible to hummingbirds. These mature to seed capsules which are architecturally interesting late in the season, and make a decorative dried cut flower. Small fuzzy grey leaves are fragrant due to the high oil content which is crucial to its incredible drought resistance. Provide infrequent watering to young plants until roots are sufficient to survive the dry season on its own.
10 - 1
8 - 10
10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Perennial
Full Sun, Partial Sun
3'-4' / 0.9m - 1.2m
Early Spring
Hybrid Origin, California
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
Well Drained
Loam, Sand
Drought
Medium
Xeric/Desert, Drought Tolerant
Cushion/Mound-forming
Spring, Summer, Fall
Showy
Purple
Gray Green
Yes
No
Single
Matte
Semi-Evergreen
Cutflower, Rock Garden / Wall, Wildflower
Birds, Hummingbirds, Butterflies
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