Salvia microphylla thrives under full sun, which ensures vibrant foliage and prolific flowering. If full sun is not consistently available, the plant can tolerate partial sun, but it may not flower as abundantly.

If full sun is not possible, choose a spot that receives morning sun and partial afternoon shade. This configuration helps in mimicking partial sun conditions and supports vigorous growth.

Baby sage (Salvia microphylla)

Also known as: Lemmon's sage

Baby sage, an evergreen shrub, is typically found in Mexico and the Southwestern United States. This plant is known for its unique leaves that emit a delightful fragrance reminiscent of mint and black currant when crushed. The flowers of baby sage are often vibrant, showcasing a spectrum of colors from light pink and rose to magenta and red.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Baby sage

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Height

1 m to 1.3 m

Spread

1 m to 1.3 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Red Pink White Purple

Images of Baby sage

Quickly Identify Baby sage

Bushy growth up to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) tall, with similar spread.

Triangular, aromatic leaves with toothed edges, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long.

Vivid tubular flowers in red, pink, or purple tones attract pollinators.

Schizocarp fruit with 4 chambers, each holding a small, hardened nutlet.

Fruit coloration blends with foliage, nutlets < 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter.

Scientific Classification of Baby sage

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Sages

Species

Baby sage

Planting and Growing of Baby sage

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Baby sage?

When watering Salvia microphylla, aim to provide around 250 milliliters. The goal is to ensure soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. It is crucial to let the top part of the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot, as excessive moisture can suffocate the roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Baby sage? ›

What should I do if my Baby sage is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Baby sage? ›

How to save an overwatered Baby sage? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Baby sage?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Salvia microphylla does best in full sun to partial sun settings. Ideal light supports bushy growth, optimal flowering, and overall plant health, making the plant more resilient to stress.

Ideal Intensity ›

Flexible Positioning ›

Environmental Consistency ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Baby sage?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Salvia microphylla thrives best within a temperature range of 60 to 75°F, where the conditions support robust growth and flowering. This temperature range is optimal because it mimics its natural habitat, promoting healthy physiological processes. Maintaining these conditions ensures that the plant can access adequate resources for photosynthesis and metabolic functions, leading to lush foliage and vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for Baby sage?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Salvia microphylla thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. This drainage allows for optimal oxygen flow, crucial for healthy root development and nutrient absorption. The plant requires soil with moderate fertility. Excess nutrients can lead to lush foliage but poor flowering, while too little can stunt growth and blooming. A balanced nutrient base supports vibrant growth and abundant blooms. Aerated soil ensures proper air circulation around roots, enhancing nutrient uptake and plant respiration. Proper aeration keeps soil loose, avoiding compaction which can suffocate roots and impede growth. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Baby sage?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Salvia microphylla thrives on balanced feeding. Use a liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength every two weeks. For slow-release fertilizers, apply according to the package's suggested rate, usually about a tablespoon per square foot of soil every four months. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Baby sage?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by removing spent flowers by cutting the stem just above a pair of leaves. This will enhance the plant's appearance and stimulate new blooms, extending the flowering season. Trim back any excess or unruly shoots to maintain a desired shape. Make sure to cut just above a pair of leaves or lateral bud to promote fuller growth and prevent leggy branches. During each pruning session, lightly shape the plant to maintain its form. This involves cutting back overgrown branches and encouraging a more compact and attractive habit. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Baby sage plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Summer, Early summer

Select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut them at a 45-degree angle. Each cutting should be approximately 4-6 inches long. Remove any leaves from the lower half to prevent rot when planted.

Dip the cut end of each cutting into rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged and place them in indirect sunlight.

Gather mature seeds from the parent plant and sow them lightly in a seed tray filled with a seed-starting mix. Keep the tray in a warm and bright location to ensure successful germination.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Baby sage plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Salvia microphylla should be repotted when you notice roots circling the bottom of the pot or when the growth becomes stunted. These are signs the plant has outgrown its container. Ideally, repotting is best done in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing, allowing it to adapt more readily to its new environment.

Select a pot that is just one size bigger than the current one. This allows room for root expansion without overwhelming the plant. A pot with adequate drainage holes is crucial, helping prevent waterlogging—something sage plants dislike. The right size balances root growth and reduces the risk of overwatering, thereby fostering healthier plants.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, preferably with a mix of peat, perlite, and organic matter. This composition ensures that water doesn't sit at the roots, mimicking the plant’s natural environment and promoting root health. The aeration and nutrients in the soil help the plant adjust quickly and continue growing robustly.