Fragrant Pitcher Sage
Lepechinia fragrans
Also listed as Sphacele cordifolia, Sphacele fragrans
Also known as Island Pitchersage
Climate Match for your location
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A California native shrub with fragrant, aromatic foliage and tubular lavender to pink flowers attractive to hummingbirds and pollinators. Drought-tolerant once established and suited to Mediterranean-style gardens.
Why grow it
Lepechinia fragrans offers aromatic foliage and pollinator appeal comparable to other California native salvias, but with notably fragrant leaves that release scent when brushed or handled. Its tolerance for dry conditions and rocky soils makes it a reliable choice for water-conscious Mediterranean gardens where many ornamental sages also thrive. The tubular flowers and growth habit provide similar ecological benefits to Salvia species while requiring minimal supplemental water once roots establish.
Watch out for
Young plants benefit from consistent moisture during their first growing season before transitioning to drought tolerance, so establishment timing relative to your local rainfall pattern matters. Like many California natives, it performs poorly in heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage, regardless of summer drought conditions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A California native shrub with fragrant, aromatic foliage and tubular lavender to pink flowers attractive to hummingbirds and pollinators. Drought-tolerant once established and suited to Mediterranean-style gardens.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Fragrant Pitcher Sage grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Lepechinia fragrans offers aromatic foliage and pollinator appeal comparable to other California native salvias, but with notably fragrant leaves that release scent when brushed or handled. Its tolerance for dry conditions and rocky soils makes it a reliable choice for water-conscious Mediterranean gardens where many ornamental sages also thrive. The tubular flowers and growth habit provide similar ecological benefits to Salvia species while requiring minimal supplemental water once roots establish.
Watch out for
Young plants benefit from consistent moisture during their first growing season before transitioning to drought tolerance, so establishment timing relative to your local rainfall pattern matters. Like many California natives, it performs poorly in heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage, regardless of summer drought conditions.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Lamiaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California
Native to: California
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar shrubs you might consider:
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