Mostly Texas Natives Nursery: Big Red Sage

Salvia penstemonoides
(SAL-vee-uh pen-steh-moan-OYE-dees)
Big Red Sage

Only in Texas. Big Red Sage was thought extinct at one point, but it was later found in a few locations in south-central Texas. Speculation is that deer browsed the plant to oblivion. If deer like it, hummingbirds LOVE it. Three-foot spikes of dark red flowers grow from the evergreen base of the plant. The flowers resemble Penstemons, hence the name, though they are about twice as big as most Penstemons. Growers in Dallas have tried them in our clay soil and in sandy soil. Both work well. The plant reseeds, so you will have a few volunteers some springs. Give them to friends and acquaintances, who will undoubtedly put you on their A-list from then on. Well-drained soil is best, as it is for most of the plants we sell.  Drought-, heat- and cold tolerant. Enjoy!

2-5' tall x 1-2' wide         sun       Zones 6-10       native        hummingbirds

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