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Salvia stolonifera

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Salvia stolonifera

(Creeping Mexican Sage) Thick, heavily textured and nearly round, the foliage of this gently creeping perennial is as showy as its tall spikes of large orange flowers. This is a water-loving species from Oaxaca, Mexico.
Common name This is the non-scientific name used for a plant. A plant may have several common names, depending on the gardener's location. To further confuse the matter, a common name may be shared by several completely different plants. At Flowers by the Sea, we rely on the scientific name to identify our plants and avoid confusion. Creeping Mexican Sage
USDA Zones The U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones indicate the temperature zones where a plant is likely to thrive. It is determined by the average annual winter minimum temperature. Actual winter temperatures may be higher or lower than the average. 7 - 11
Size (h/w/fh) The anticipated mature size of the plant: Height, Width & Flower Height. 24"/24"/30"
Exposure This is the average amount of sunlight that a plant needs to thrive. Generally, full sun exposure is 6 or more hours of direct sun daily while partial shade is less than 4 hours of sun or dappled shade all day. Plants may tolerate more sunlight in cooler climates and need afternoon shade in extremely hot climates. Partial shade
Soil type This is the kind of soil that a plant needs to thrive. Most plants require a well-drained soil that allows the water to soak into the soil without becoming soggy. Sandy and clay soils can be improved by digging in compost to improve drainage. Well drained & rich
Water needs Plants have specific water requirements. Water loving means the plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. Average generally indicates applying 1 inch of water per week, or watering when the soil is dry to a depth of 3 to 4 inches. One inch of water is equal to 5 gallons per square yard of soil surface. Water loving
Container plant? "Yes" indicates that this plant can be successfully grown as a container plant. Yes
Hummingbird plant? Hummingbirds have been observed regularly feeding from this plant's flowers. Yes
Mature height The mature height of this plant in average conditions. 1 to 2 feet
Mature spread The mature width of this plant in average conditions. 1 to 2 feet
Degree of Difficulty
Easy
Degree of Difficulty
This plant is easy to grow in a variety of conditions.
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(Creeping Mexican Sage) Thick, heavily textured and nearly round, the foliage of this gently creeping perennial is as showy as its tall spikes of large orange flowers that bloom in fall. This is a water-loving species from Oaxaca, Mexico.

The appellation "Stolonifera" in its scientific name refers to above-ground runners called stolons, which cause the plant to spread and gradually form a dense mat. This makes it a fine groundcover.

Creeping Mexican Sage also looks pretty in a container or along a pathway -- places where you can appreciate its beauty up close. Even if this sage didn't flower much we would grow it for the handsome leaves.

Although tolerant of full sun, this species appreciates partial shade. Give it ample water and rich, well-drained soil. It is ideal for damp woodland gardens in mild climates.

Although we know that Creeping Mexican Sage does well in USDA Zones 9 to 11, we have also received reports of it surviving winters in colder areas. If you try it in a region with chillier winter weather, please let us know the results.

Highly recommended.