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sage tree plant

The sage tree plant is a popular choice among New Zealand gardeners, thanks to its aromatic foliage, stunning blooms, and resilience in a range of garden conditions. Often sought after for both ornamental and culinary purposes, the sage tree plant is an attractive addition to herb gardens, borders, and Mediterranean-inspired landscapes. Its silvery-green leaves and vibrant flower spikes attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable companion for garden biodiversity. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting your planting journey, the sage tree plant delivers long-lasting interest and practical benefits for your outdoor space.

Salvia 'Santa Barbara' shrub in a garden with dark pink flowers.

Salvia Santa Barbara (Mexican Sage)

Salvia Santa Barbara, commonly known as Mexican Sage or Mexican Bush Sage, is grown for its rich display of flowers from summer through autumn. It produces long, slender, flower spikes with small, purple flowers which sit neatly above the mid-green foliage. Salvia Santa Barbara typically grows to 1 m tall and 1.5 m wide and performs best on a well-drained, sheltered site in full sun. This Mexican Sage is ideal for herb gardens, mixed plantings, cottage gardens, borders, or container growing.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Summer, Autumn
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Culinary, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Cottage, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
phlomis-russeliana-

Phlomis russeliana (Turkish Sage)

5 from 1 customers

Commonly known as Jerusalem Sage, this is a small shrub grown for both its foliage and flowers. The foliage comprises lush, dark green leaves held on upright stems. These are complemented with showy clusters of pale yellow, “hooded” flowers, which are produced year-round, but predominantly in summer. It grows as a multi-stemmed plant to about 50 cm tall and 70 cm wide, and peforms best when grown in full sun on a well-drained, sheltered site. It is tolerant of dry periods, light frosts, and coastal environments. This variety of Phlomis is commonly added to a mixed planting, included in borders, or included anywhere its year-round beauty can be appreciated.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 50 cm
Spread: 70 cm
Flowering time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock
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Salvia Santa Barbara (Mexican Sage)

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Search sage tree plant

What is a Sage Tree Plant?

Despite the common name, the sage tree plant is not a single botanical species but often refers to several aromatic, woody members of the Salvia family and their relatives. These plants generally have upright growth habits, grey-green leaves, and showy flowers ranging from violet to deep purple. They thrive in New Zealand's temperate climate and are a low-maintenance choice for sunny, well-drained spots in the garden.

If you're inspired by the sage tree plant’s characteristics, you may also enjoy the Salvia Wendy's Wish, which is celebrated for its magenta-pink blooms and long flowering season, or Salvia Santa Barbara (Mexican Sage), prized for its velvety purple flowers and soft foliage.

How to Grow and Care for Sage Tree Plants

Growing a sage tree plant is straightforward, provided you offer it the right conditions. Choose a spot with full sun and well-draining soil, as these plants dislike having wet feet. Once established, they are drought tolerant and need minimal ongoing care—simply cut back old growth to encourage fresh, vigorous stems and an abundant display of flowers.

To diversify your planting, consider integrating the Perovskia atriplicifolia (Perovskia plant). Sometimes known as Russian sage, this hardy shrub offers similar feathery, silver foliage and upright blue flower spikes, pairing beautifully with sage tree plants for a unified, easy-care look.

Uses for Sage Tree Plants in the Garden

Sage tree plants are incredibly versatile. Use them as specimen plants, in mixed borders, or as fragrant hedges. Their aromatic leaves can be harvested for use in the kitchen, and they bring valuable colour and texture to landscapes year-round. For gardeners who appreciate Mediterranean-style planting schemes, the Phlomis russeliana (Turkish Sage) makes an excellent companion with its striking yellow blossoms and architectural shape.

More Inspiring Plant Selections

If you’re exploring foliage contrasts for your indoor jungle or sheltered outdoor spots, the Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant) provides stunning variegated leaves in shades of pink, cream, and green—ideal for adding a touch of tropical flair alongside your drought-tolerant sage tree plant species.

Ready to expand your collection? Discover more exceptional perennials and shrub options that complement the classic sage tree plant and transform your garden into a haven of colour, fragrance, and life.


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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

–The Plant Company

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