White Sage (Salvia apiana) is a striking ornamental perennial noted for its silvery-white foliage and tall flowering stems. Well-suited for xeriscapes, dry borders, slopes, and wildlife gardens, it thrives in hot, sunny conditions. Summer blooms attract bees and beneficial insects, making it both visually standout and ecologically valuable in low-water landscapes.
Features
• Silvery foliage adds contrast to warm landscapes
• Excellent drought-tolerant perennial for dry garden designs
• Tall flower spikes support bees & other pollinators
• Suitable for borders, slopes, rock gardens & xeriscapes
• Non-GMO Salvia apiana seed variety
Specifications
• Common Name: White Sage
• Scientific Name: Salvia apiana
• Plant Type: Perennial ornamental herb
• USDA Zones: 7–11
• Height: 36–60 inches
• Spread: 24–36 inches
• Foliage: Silvery-white, aromatic visual texture
• Flower Color: White to pale lavender spikes
• Bloom Season: Late spring to summer
• Light Requirements: Full sun (prefers high heat)
• Soil Preference: Sandy, rocky, very well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Very low once established
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Deer Resistance: Generally avoided in landscapes
• Pollinator Value: Attracts bees and beneficial insects
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Plant Spacing: 24–36 inches
• Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
• Start indoors 6–10 weeks before frost; direct sow only in warm zones.
• Light-dependent germination—press seeds onto surface, do not bury.
• Mist lightly and keep warm (65–75°F) until germination (14–35 days).
• Transplant to full sun in sandy or rocky, well-drained soil.
• Water sparingly; allow soil to dry thoroughly between watering.
• Avoid heavy soils or standing moisture around roots.
• Allow flower spikes to dry if natural reseeding is desired.