Usually available: All year

Life cycle: Perennial
Height: 60cm
Position: Sun / part shade
Soil preference: Well drained

This is how we pack and send your Herb Plants to all states except TAS & WA

You will receive
- 1 Salvia microphylla 'Baby Sage' Herb Plant in a 50 X 75mm tube - General growing instructions

All of our Herb Plants are grown organically with certified organic potting mixes and fertilizers

Botanical Name: Salvia microphylla 'Baby Sage'

‘Baby Sage’ is a dwarf, compact shrub with a slightly spreading habit. It grows to approximately 45cm high by 45 cm wide. The ovate shaped green leaves are aromatic and are usually less than 2cm long. The 1.5cm tubular flowers are crimson to watermelon red, while the bracts are dark red. The flowers appear in summer and continue through into autumn. Everything about this plant is smaller.

This small salvia is another that presents some confusion amongst gardeners, including the experts. ‘Baby Sage’ is often described as being synonymous with Salvia microphylla, which is called Little Leaf Sage, because of its small leaf size. However, the wild form of S. microphylla, which is native to Mexico and Arizona, often bears larger leaves and grows larger. It hybridises very easily and current information suggests that it is likely that ‘Baby Sage’ is one of the many hybrids and cultivars derived from Salvia microphylla. ‘Baby Sage’ is also the parent plant to many similarly dwarfed salvia varieties. ‘Baby Sage’ is also called ‘Graham’s Sage’, ‘Black Currant Sage’ and ‘Delta Sage’ but some of these names are also used for other salvias.

The salvia family has over 900 members with an extensive history as culinary, medicinal and ornamental plants. Ornamental salvias have become collectors items, as gardeners try to find a place in their garden for each and every one. There are salvias that will suit every type of soil and climate. More information on the Salvia genus and Common Sage (Salvia officinalis) may be found on our Common Sage page.

Growing Conditions

‘Baby Sage’ grows well in full sun to part shade, although it may not flower as strongly in shade. Many Salvia microphylla cultivars do well in dry regions and are drought tolerant. However, ‘Baby Sage’ may require more moisture and well drained soil to do well. It has moderate frost tolerance and once established may tolerate periods of dryness or low water. Pruning in spring and autumn will help with new growth and maintain plant health.

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.