Salvia clevelandii aka Fragrant Sage

Salvia clevelandii is an evergreen shrub in the mint family. Common names include Cleveland sage, blue sage and fragrant sage. It comes from southern California and northern Baja California, Mexico. It grows in sunny chaparral, within a subtropical climate. Its scented leaves stay on the plant year-round.

Sources give heights from 2 to 4 feet [0.6–1.2 metres]. The shrub has a rounded but loose, sprawling shape. Its branches arch and can root where they touch soil. Bark ranges from reddish brown to greyish brown. Young stems bear a pale coat of woolly hairs. Leaves grow in pairs on opposite sides of each stem. They are narrow, with an oval to lance-shaped outline. Each can reach 0.25 feet [0.08 metres] long. Woolly hairs cover both sides of the grey-green leaves. The foliage gives off a strong scent.

Purple-blue flowers bloom from mid- to late summer. They grow in whorls along spikes about 1 foot [0.3 metres] long. Long stamens and pistils reach beyond each flower. Bees pollinate the flowers, and the plant can also fertilise itself. The blooms draw butterflies as well as bees. Small, glossy nutlets form within husks after flowering.

Grow this sage in full sun with very good drainage. Light, sandy soil suits it, though it also accepts loam. It tolerates mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline soil. It can grow in dry or moist ground. Rich soil suits it, but excess nitrogen favours leaves over flowers. Winter wet can kill plants, so drainage matters in cold weather. PFAF lists USDA zones 8–11 and cold tolerance near 14–23°F [-10 to -5°C]. Growth proceeds at a moderate pace. Seeds and half-ripe cuttings offer ways to raise new plants.

Garden uses include containers, foundation beds and planting in groups. It also serves as a specimen or coastal garden shrub. Its evergreen leaves add lasting form, colour and scent. A sunny bed beside a south- or west-facing wall suits it. The leaves can replace culinary sage as a seasoning. PFAF also lists the flowers as an edible garnish. That source reports no known hazards and no known medicinal uses. Its low food-use rating reflects a minor culinary role. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.