A researched TAFE plant identification study record for Salvia leucantha, widely grown as Mexican Sage or Mexican Bush Sage.

Identification

The plant forms an arching, many-stemmed clump with white-hairy stems. Opposite leaves are narrow-lanceolate, wrinkled above and softly white-hairy beneath. Flower spikes are recognised by their persistent, velvety violet or purple calyces; the shorter-lived corollas are commonly white, pale mauve or violet depending on the form. The combined texture and two-tone effect are stronger identification characters than flower colour alone.

Distribution and ecology

Kew accepts the native range as Mexico to Central America and describes it as a subshrub of seasonally dry tropical vegetation. The tubular flowers attract pollinating birds and insects. Outside its native range it is cultivated widely and has become naturalised in some regions.

Cultivation

For dense growth and abundant flowering, provide full sun, well-drained soil and regular moisture while establishing. Afternoon shade can be useful in extreme heat. Cut old stems back after flowering or after frost damage to renew the plant, but wait until severe cold has passed. Propagation is straightforward from division or stem cuttings.

Safety note

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria records fatal livestock poisoning associated with this species in New South Wales. It should not be presented as forage or an edible sage simply because it belongs to Salvia; culinary use claims require species-specific evidence.