Hummingbird Sage
Salvia spathacea
Last reviewed: July 2026
Salvia spathacea is a California native perennial herb that blooms magenta flowers from March through June, attracting hummingbirds and bees. This drought-tolerant sage thrives in partial sun to light shade conditions.
Hummingbird Sage (Salvia spathacea) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hummingbird sage is a native perennial with velvety, aromatic leaves and showy spikes of magenta-red flowers in spring and early summer. It forms attractive groundcover clumps and thrives in part shade with low water needs once established.
Growing Hummingbird Sage
Grow Hummingbird Sage in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hummingbird Sage is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Can look somewhat unkempt if not maintained
- Spreads via underground rhizomes and may need containment
- Summer dormancy can make it appear less tidy
Wildlife value
A standout plant for attracting hummingbirds, which are drawn to its tubular red flowers. Bees also frequently visit the blooms for nectar.
Common questions
- When does Salvia spathacea bloom?
- Hummingbird Sage typically blooms from March through June, producing showy magenta flower spikes that are especially attractive to hummingbirds.
- What pollinators visit Salvia spathacea?
- This native California sage is primarily pollinated by hummingbirds, which are drawn to its tubular magenta flowers, though bees also visit the blooms.
- Where is Salvia spathacea native?
- Hummingbird Sage is native to California, where it naturally occurs in chaparral and oak woodland habitats.
- How much water does Salvia spathacea need?
- This drought-tolerant native requires low water once established, making it well-suited for water-wise California gardens and natural landscapes.
- Is Hummingbird Sage toxic to dogs?
- Hummingbird Sage is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Hummingbird Sage toxic to cats?
- Hummingbird Sage is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Hummingbird Sage HOA-friendly?
- Hummingbird Sage is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Hummingbird Sage? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz