Description

This unique sage is endemic to the coastal mountains of the southern half of the state. It is most common between San Luis Obispo and Orange Counties. It reaches its northern limit in the SF Bay Area where it is a rather rare find. One very healthy population thrives on the slopes of San Bruno Mountain. This little mountain greets travellers on northbound 101 at the northern border of San Mateo County. Unique geology and its location and orientation on the peninsula combine to support a unique array of plants. The form of the hummingbird sage is smaller than others available commercially. The glandular hastate leaves only grow to about 12 inches in height. The magenta flowers are also smaller on short stalks but no less beautiful than those of larger selections. As with the species, the San Bruno Mountain selection appreciates a shady, dry setting where it will spread via rhizome to form a patch.. Three hours of sun and no supplemental irrigation (after establishment) are just right in climate zone 15 (West San Jose).