Salvia roemeriana aka Cedar Sage

Salvia roemeriana, or cedar sage, belongs to the mint family. Its native range runs from Texas into northeastern Mexico. The name cedar sage reflects where it grows in nature. It grows beneath and near junipers, often called cedars. This short-lived herbaceous perennial can flower its first year from seed. Gardeners also grow it as an annual. Its species name honors Ferdinand von Roemer, who studied Texas geology.

Plants form upright, rounded clumps and grow fast. Most reach about 0.8–2 feet [0.25–0.6 metres] tall. RHS lists an upper height of 3.3 feet [1 metre]. Spread ranges from 0.5–1.6 feet [0.15–0.5 metres] across the sources. The green leaves are round or shaped like hearts. They have coarse teeth along their edges and rounded tips. Their surface feels rough and papery, without hairs. Leaves measure 0.25–0.42 feet [0.08–0.13 metres] long and nearly as wide. The plant sheds its leaves, and its stems can look purple.

Red, two-lipped flowers rise above the leaves on upright spikes. Whorls of flowers line the stems and supply ample nectar. Hummingbirds visit the blooms, while butterflies also visit the plant. Bloom dates vary with growing conditions and the source. NC State reports early spring flowers, then scattered summer bloom. Chicago lists May through October; RHS describes midsummer through late autumn. Some buds stay closed yet still form fertile seeds. Each fruit holds four small brown nutlets within the dried calyx. Purple finches and American goldfinches eat the seeds.

Grow cedar sage in sun or light partial shade. Give it good drainage and a sheltered spot. RHS favors light soil with humus and moderate fertility. NC State records tolerance of many soil types and pH levels. Established plants cope with brief dry spells. Chicago lists USDA zones 7–11, while NC State lists 7–10. RHS rates its UK hardiness as H4. Seeds provide a way to raise new plants. Removing spent flower spikes can extend the bloom season.

Cedar sage suits border fronts, rock gardens, and pollinator beds. It also grows in pots and small garden spaces. Care needs are low, but seedlings can spread fast. Unwanted seedlings are easy to spot and remove. NC State reports few major problems. RHS lists few pests, but several possible diseases. These include powdery mildew, verticillium wilt, and root or foot rots. Honey fungus can occur, though RHS describes it as rare.