Nettleleaf Sage
Salvia urticifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, GA, KY, LA and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Nettleleaf sage is a compact native perennial that produces delicate blue to purple flower spikes from May through July. This well-behaved plant maintains a neat, clumping form and thrives in partial sun with moderate watering.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nettleleaf Sage is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the late spring and summer blooming period. This sage provides valuable nectar resources during peak pollinator activity months.
Common questions
- How much sun does Nettleleaf Sage need?
- Nettleleaf Sage grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Nettleleaf Sage bloom?
- Nettleleaf Sage blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Nettleleaf Sage native?
- Nettleleaf Sage (Salvia urticifolia) is native to AL, GA, KY, LA and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Nettleleaf Sage attract?
- Nettleleaf Sage draws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Is Nettleleaf Sage HOA-friendly?
- Nettleleaf Sage is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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 Nettleleaf 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