Chia
Salvia columbariae
Also listed as Pycnosphace columbariae
Also known as Desert Chia, California Chia, Chia Sage
Climate Match for your location
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A delicate California wildflower with slender upright stems bearing whorled blue-purple flowers loved by pollinators. Drought-tolerant once established and excellent for xeriscaping or native gardens.
Why grow it
Chia (Salvia columbariae) is a native annual that requires minimal water once established, making it a practical choice for water-limited gardens in the southwestern U.S. where similar native salvias may be less reliably available. Unlike some ornamental sages, it combines pollinator value with a compact growth habit suitable for small spaces or interplanting within established perennial schemes.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-draining soil and can decline in humid climates or with overly generous watering. Seeds readily self-sow where established, which may require management if you want to control spread in a small garden bed.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California and Baja California
Native to: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A delicate California wildflower with slender upright stems bearing whorled blue-purple flowers loved by pollinators. Drought-tolerant once established and excellent for xeriscaping or native gardens.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Chia grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Chia (Salvia columbariae) is a native annual that requires minimal water once established, making it a practical choice for water-limited gardens in the southwestern U.S. where similar native salvias may be less reliably available. Unlike some ornamental sages, it combines pollinator value with a compact growth habit suitable for small spaces or interplanting within established perennial schemes.
Watch out for
This species prefers well-draining soil and can decline in humid climates or with overly generous watering. Seeds readily self-sow where established, which may require management if you want to control spread in a small garden bed.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California and Baja California
Native to: Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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