Leucophyllum frutescens aka Purple Sage

Taxonomy

Leucophyllum frutescens, also known as Texas sage, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the figwort family, Scrophulariaceae. It is native to the northern parts of Mexico, Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, and the US state of Texas, where it is also the official "State Native Shrub of Texas." Despite being commonly called Texas sage, it is not a true sage and is not related to the genus Salvia. The plant is also known as Texas Ranger, Texas rain sage, cenizo, Texas silverleaf, ash-bush, wild lilac, purple sage, senisa, cenicilla, palo cenizo, or hierba del cenizo. Texas sage plants are low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and attractive bushes, with soft silver-gray oval leaves that are easy to care for. They are found in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 to 11 and bloom during summer and fall, with tubular flowers in shades of pink, blue, and purple that provide a dramatic contrast to the plant's shimmery leaves. These solitary axillary flowers are bell- or funnel-shaped, with five lobes and two lips, and are found in rocky, calcareous soils. These shrubs are moderately salt tolerant and propagate by seed or cuttings. They prefer low humidity but have excellent tolerance for drought and heat, making them a popular choice for coastal gardens. Overall, Leucophyllum frutescens is an excellent choice for those looking for an easy-care, compact, and attractive bush that thrives in hot and dry conditions.

Common names

Purple Sage, Texas Barometer Bush, Texas Silverleaf

How to care for Purple Sage

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Purple Sage due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Purple Sage should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Purple Sage loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Purple Sage thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Texas Silverleaf.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Purple Sage is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.


More info:
Wikipedia