Leucophyllum frutescens aka Purple Sage

Leucophyllum frutescens is a desert shrub in the figwort family. Common names include Texas sage, cenizo, and barometer bush. It grows in southwest Texas and Mexico. Missouri Botanical Garden also includes New Mexico in its range. It grows on rocky limestone slopes in the Chihuahuan Desert. These sites have lime-rich soils and a dry climate. People grow it as a water-saving shrub in the Southwest.

Its compact form has loose branches and a rounded outline. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a height of 5–8 feet (1.52–2.44 m). Its listed spread reaches 6 feet (1.83 m). NC State gives larger dimensions of 6–12 feet (1.83–3.66 m) each way. Older plants can spread outward unless pruned to shape. The shrub keeps most leaves, though some fall in winter. Soft, silver-gray to green leaves have smooth edges. Small, star-shaped hairs give them their pale look. Most leaves measure an inch or less in length. The stems have no scent.

Pink, lavender, or purple flowers appear from summer into fall. Rain or changes in humidity can bring a fresh flush. Each flush lasts a few days. Flowers grow singly where leaves meet the stems. They have a bell-like tube and four or five lobes. Each flower reaches about an inch in length. Flowers form on new growth, which matters when pruning. The fruit is a capsule. Butterflies visit the plant, adding value to butterfly gardens.

Full sun gives this shrub its preferred growing conditions. It tolerates some shade, heat, drought, and moderate salt exposure. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 8–10; NC State includes zone 11. It grows best in alkaline soil with very good drainage. NC State lists sand, loam, clay, and shallow rocky soils. Gritty soil and little moisture suit it well. Avoid fertilizer and excess water. Raised beds can help where rainfall is high. Seeds and stem cuttings provide ways to grow new plants.

Use it for hedges, screens, windbreaks, borders, or foundation plantings. It also suits large pots near patios and driveways. Its pale leaves add interest through winter. Established plants need little care and grow at a moderate pace. Serious pest and disease problems are uncommon. Cotton root rot remains a risk, especially in wet soil. High humidity and warm nights can also cause problems.