Savia Greggii ‘Coral’

Salvia greggii coral

Characteristics

Culture

Savia Greggii ‘Coral’ does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist growing conditions, but will not tolerate any standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in rich soils, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. Savia Greggii ‘Coral’ is a selection of a native North American species.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Salvia greggii, commonly known as autumn sage, Texas sage or Chihuahuan sage, is a small deciduous sub-shrub that grows to 2-3′ tall and as wide.  This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season’s flowers. It is a good choice for attracting bees, butterflies and hummingbirds to your yard, but is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics.  Savia Greggii ‘Coral’ is delightful to use as a small, ornamental, flowering shrub in a perennial bed or as a low hedge.  

 

Specific epithet honors Josiah Gregg (1806-1850), botanist and explorer, who first collected this plant on a trip through Texas to Mexico in the mid-1840s.

Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Garden Uses

Gardens, Borders, Foundations, Outdoor pots or containers. With its upright habit of growth, it is best suited for use as a ‘thriller’ in the ‘spiller-thriller-filler’ container combination; plant it near the center of the pot, surrounded by smaller plants and those that spill over the edges.