Salvia penstemonoides

Big Red Sage, Salvia pentstemonoides, also called Penstemon Sage, is an herbaceous perennial native to the Texas Hill Country. In nature, it is only found on banks along streams and seeps on limestone ledges in the central Edwards Plateau. In North Texas, Big Red Sage usually grows 18-36 inches wide and 30-48 inches tall. Its 4-6 inch leaves are deep green, elongated, and glossy, similar to penstemon leaves, which explains its botanical and second common name.

Big Red Sage blooms from June through the fall. The 1.5-2 inch flowers appear on spikes.

They grow above the foliage and are deep-red to purplish-red in color. Seeds may be collected following flowering.

BONAP MAP

Height: 3’-4’
Spread 1.5’-3’
Bloom: June-October
Light: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Low to Medium
Zone: 8, 9, 10, 11
Origin: Texas