Quick answer: Black sage (Salvia mellifera) is native to 1 state. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically live plant, verified 24 Oct 2026.
Photo: No machine-readable author provided. Curtis Clark assumed (based on copyright claims)., Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.5)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Well-drained, rocky slopes |
| Bloom | Bloom Mar-Jun |
| Height | 3-6 ft |
| Wildlife value | Major honey and native bee plant |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (24 Oct 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Live plant via Amazon · listing verified 24 Oct 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Black sage
Where is Black sage native?
Black sage (Salvia mellifera) is native to California. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Black sage bloom?
Black sage blooms Mar-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Black sage need?
Light: Sun. Water: Dry. Soil: Well-drained, rocky slopes. Mature height: 3-6 ft.
Is Black sage good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Major honey and native bee plant.
Is Black sage deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Black sage is deer-resistant and drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy real Black sage seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as live plant that names the true species, last checked 24 Oct 2026. Look for the scientific name Salvia mellifera on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Black sage.
- White sage Salvia apiana
- Common manzanita Arctostaphylos manzanita
- Foothill penstemon Penstemon heterophyllus
- Elegant clarkia Clarkia unguiculata
- Hummingbird sage Salvia spathacea
- Arroyo lupine Lupinus succulentus
Also listed under
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