Forsythia Sage

Salvia madrensis

Forsythia sage really sparks autumn with long spikes of brilliant yellow flowers, guaranteed to entice hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Complement with lavender-hued Salvia leucantha for a truly gorgeous fall display to benefit migrating hummingbirds and butterflies.

Until it blooms, treasure its blue-green leaves and slightly sprawling habit.

Forsythia sage isn’t too particular about soil, equally happy in situations from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, but good drainage would be a benefit.

Morning sun is best or sun throughout the day but not full blast all day, especially afternoon. It can also take partial shade with some sun, where it might get a little lankier and bloom a little less.

At maturity, it can be 5-8’ wide with 3’ tall flowers in fall, so give it plenty of room. Plant in the back of a border to tower over smaller plants in front.

Generally hardy to zone 7, it will die back in winter. Cut to the ground in late winter/early spring.

As with all herbaceous salvias, a little extra water may be needed when planted in sun.