Quck answer
Texas Sage, also known as Texas Ranger or Purple Sage, is a drought-tolerant shrub native to Texas. To grow Texas Sage, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Plant the shrub in the spring or fall, and water it regularly until it becomes established. Once established, Texas Sage requires minimal watering and can survive on rainfall alone. Prune the shrub in early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Texas Sage is a low-maintenance plant that adds beautiful purple flowers and a pleasant fragrance to any garden or landscape.
Known as Texas Ranger or purple sage, Texas sage (Leucophyllum frutescens) is a woody shrub that can tolerate drought and is native to northern Mexico, New Mexico, and the Chihuahuan Desert of Texas. It has silvery green leaves and bell-shaped flowers in various colors. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in USDA zones 8 through 10 and is also referred to as barometer bush because it flowers after summer rains.
Sunlight and Soil
Texas sage requires four to six hours of daily sunlight and well-draining soil. It can adapt to different soil pH levels but thrives in alkaline soil with limestone or shell. Fertilizer or compost is unnecessary when planting Texas sage, as it is self-sufficient and may not flower if given fertilizer.
Plant Spacing
When planting Texas sage, make sure to leave at least 3 feet of space between each plant, as it can grow up to 8 feet tall and wide. It should also be planted 3 feet away from foundations and 4 feet away from paths, walkways, and driveways.
Watering
Water newly planted Texas sage every five to seven days until it establishes, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry between watering. After establishment, rainfall should be sufficient in most climates. Additional watering may be needed during dry periods to encourage flowering. Avoid overwatering, as Texas sage is a desert plant and can suffer or die from excessive moisture.
Pruning
Texas sage is a slow-growing plant and only requires occasional trimming to maintain its appearance. Use hand pruning shears to trim the plant after flowering. In early spring, a hard prune can be done by cutting back two-thirds of the shrub to promote growth and flowering in the following season. Avoid using hedge trimmers or shaping the shrub into unnatural forms, as it can cause thinning from the center. Sanitize pruning shears with isopropyl alcohol before and after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases.
Pests and Diseases
Texas sage is generally a hardy plant with minimal issues. The most common problem is root rot, which can be avoided by avoiding overwatering. While Texas sage may not be bothered by pests or diseases, it’s important to note that it can bother humans with allergies or sensitivities.
When handling Texas sage, it is important to be aware that it can cause allergies due to the tiny hairs on its leaves that collect dust particles. To prevent inhaling these particles, it is recommended to wear a dust mask while working with or around the shrub.
Uses of Texas Sage in Landscaping
Showcasing Texas sage can be done by placing it in a location where its beautiful form and vibrant blossoms can stand out. This can be along a fence, in a corner spot next to the house or garage, or in other areas such as:
- Creating a hedge or privacy screen
- Enhancing a deck or patio
- Bordering a driveway or walkway
- Using it as a foundation plant
- Adding it as a backdrop for flower beds
- Planting it in low-water areas
Companion Plants for Texas Sage in the Garden
Pair Texas sage with other sun-loving plants like the drought-tolerant queen sago palm (Cycas circinalis), which is a perennial suitable for USDA zones 10 and 11. Another option is the ice plant (Carpobrotus chilensis), also known as sea fig, which is a succulent ground cover that provides texture and visual interest when planted with Texas sage in the background. However, it is important to note that the ice plant can be invasive in certain areas, so it is recommended to check before planting.
In low-water gardens within USDA zones 8 through 10, consider using desert willow (Chilopsis linearis) as a companion for Texas sage. This tree has willowy foliage and reaches an average height of 20 to 30 feet. Additionally, its white, pink, or lavender tube-shaped flowers have earned it the nickname “orchid of the desert.”
