‘Mirage Deep Purple’ Autumn Sage is a popular, attractive, and easy-to-care-for ornamental sage cultivar. Its compact nature allows for versatile placement in various landscape designs.
Distinctive Features
‘Mirage Deep Purple’ Autumn Sage, a cultivar of Salvia greggii, showcases masses of beautiful, lightly-scented, deep purple flowers from late spring through mid-fall, often until the first frost. These striking blooms emerge from distinctive black flower buds. It typically grows to a compact 12-14 inches tall with a 14-16 inch spread, exhibiting an upright, bushy habit.
Its fragrant, narrow green leaves generally remain evergreen in warmer climates. This sage is resilient, heat, and drought tolerant. Its vibrant flowers attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Planting Guidelines
For optimal blooming, ‘Mirage Deep Purple’ Autumn Sage thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate some partial shade, especially in very hot climates where afternoon shade is beneficial.
Well-draining soil is crucial; it adapts to various soil types but will not tolerate standing water. It performs best in moderately fertile, well-drained conditions, including rocky or sandy soils. ‘Mirage Deep Purple’ Autumn Sage is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10, where it can overwinter. Space plants 14-16 inches apart to allow for their mature spread. After placing the plant, backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
Ongoing Care
Once established, ‘Mirage Deep Purple’ Autumn Sage is notably drought tolerant. During the first growing season, water regularly (about once per week), especially in hot periods. Established plants generally need about one inch of water per week, often satisfied by rainfall.
Pruning maintains appearance and encourages continuous blooms. Deadheading spent flowers prolongs the flowering period. A more significant prune in late winter or early spring removes old growth and promotes vigorous new growth. This low-maintenance sage does not require extensive fertilization; a light, balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring is usually sufficient if soil is not fertile. It is also deer resistant.
Landscape Applications
‘Mirage Deep Purple’ Autumn Sage offers versatility in garden design, making it suitable for various landscape applications. Its compact, mounding habit makes it an excellent choice for garden beds and borders, providing continuous color. It performs well in containers and patio gardens.
It is also effective in mass plantings, creating a dramatic display. Given its drought tolerance, it is well-suited for xeriscape designs and low-water gardens.