The Salvia chiapensis, known as Chiapas Sage, is a striking perennial herb that brings vibrant color to gardens and landscapes. Native to Mexico, it is known for its vivid magenta or deep pink flowers, this sage plant is prized for its ornamental appeal and pollinator-friendly nature. In its natural habitat, Chiapas Sage thrives in cool, shaded understories, growing along forest edges where sunlight is filtered through taller trees. 

In ideal growing conditions, Chiapas Sage can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. This relatively compact size makes it well-suited for borders, containers, and mixed perennial beds.

Its upright growth habit, coupled with the spreading foliage, creates a bushy, lush appearance that enhances garden landscapes with both height and volume.

The foliage of Chiapas Sage is an attractive deep green with serrated leaves, often covered in a light fuzz that adds texture to the plant.

The plant’s aromatic leaves also add to its charm, releasing a mild, pleasant fragrance when brushed or crushed.

Chiapas Sage blooms almost year-round in temperate climates, offering a continuous display of color.

The flowers of Chiapas Sage are not only visually stunning but also highly attractive to pollinators. The tubular shape of the flowers is ideal for hummingbirds, who are frequent visitors to the plant. Additionally, bees and butterflies are drawn to the rich nectar, making Chiapas Sage an excellent choice for pollinator-friendly gardens. This continuous bloom cycle ensures that the plant remains a focal point in gardens for many months, while also supporting local pollinator populations. 

Butterflies

Bees

Hummingbirds

Lady Bugs

Multi Pollinators

Other Birds

When it comes to care, the Salvia chiapensis thrives in partial shade to dappled sunlight, making it perfect for shaded gardens or areas that receive morning sun and afternoon shade. It prefers well-draining soil that retains some moisture but does not become saturated. Its watering needs are minimal once established, making it a low-maintenance plant perfect for xeriscaping in dry climates. However, it may benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged periods of drought to promote healthy growth and flowering.  

When growing indoors, place it near bright, indirect light and maintain temperatures between 60°F to 75°F. For outdoor cultivation, it thrives in USDA zones 7 to 10. It benefits from a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, applied once a year. Pruning is essential to promote bushier growth; cutting back spent flower stalks encourages new blooms and helps maintain a neat shape. 

The Salvia chiapensis can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are taken in the late spring or early summer, allowing the gardener to create clones of the parent plant. The cuttings should be 4 to 6 inches long and placed in a well-draining soil mix after removing the lower leaves. Rooting hormone can be applied to encourage faster root growth. Seeds, although available, are less commonly used for propagation, as the plant's flowering habit makes stem cuttings a more efficient method for reproduction. 

Toxicity: The Chiapas Sage is considered non-toxic to humans, pets, and wildlife. This makes it a safe addition to gardens frequented by children and animals.  

Overall, the Chiapas Sage (Salvia chiapensis) is an exceptional plant for gardeners looking to add color, attract pollinators, and cultivate a low-maintenance perennial. Its origins in the cloud forests of Chiapas give it unique qualities, making it ideal for semi-shaded gardens with consistent moisture. With its vibrant pink or magenta blooms and lush green foliage, this plant offers year-round interest. Order your very own Salvia chiapensis today! 

***HOW WE PREPARE YOUR PLANTS FOR SHIPPING***

Before sending your plants, we often trim the leafy parts and remove flowers or buds. This helps them survive shipping and adjust to transplanting better. Don't worry - these hardy plants have strong roots and should settle in quickly once planted.

If you plant in fall, you might not see much growth above ground at first. This is normal for perennials planted in autumn. They focus on developing a robust root system first. You'll enjoy well-established plants in the next growing season.