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Plant of the Month
thymus vulgaris flower
thymus vulgaris flower
thymus vulgaris flower
thymus vulgaris flower

Cleveland Sage

Salvia clevelandii 'Winnifred Gilman', commonly known as Winifred Gilman Cleveland sage, is a drought-tolerant perennial native to California.
Salvia clevelandii 'Winnifred Gilman', commonly known as Winifred Gilman Cleveland sage, is a drought-tolerant perennial native to California. It features aromatic, gray-green foliage and tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This compact sage thrives in sunny locations with well-draining soil and is ideal for borders, rock gardens, or as a focal point in mixed perennial beds. 'Winnifred Gilman' is deer-resistant and low-maintenance, making it a perfect choice for water-wise gardens or landscapes. With its fragrant blooms and attractive foliage, this sage cultivar adds beauty and biodiversity to garden landscapes.

Plant Features

Seasonal Beauty with Minimal Effort
Salvia clevelandii ‘Winnifred Gilman’, commonly known as Winifred Gilman Cleveland sage, is known for its aromatic, gray-green foliage and striking spikes of lavender-blue flowers. These blooms appear from late spring to early summer, bringing vibrant color and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to the garden. The plant’s compact nature combined with its fragrant blooms and attractive foliage makes it a standout in any landscape. This sage cultivar is particularly celebrated for its drought tolerance and low-maintenance needs, requiring minimal water once established, which allows it to maintain beauty and functionality with ease.
Ideal for Sunny, Dry Gardens
Thriving in sunny locations with well-draining soil, Salvia clevelandii ‘Winnifred Gilman’ is perfectly suited for a variety of garden settings including borders, rock gardens, and as a focal point in mixed perennial beds. Its ability to withstand dry conditions makes it ideal for water-wise gardens or landscapes that experience arid climates. Additionally, its deer resistance adds further value, making it an excellent choice for areas prone to wildlife visits. This sage is also well-suited for Mediterranean-inspired gardens or xeriscaping projects, where its heat tolerance and minimal water requirements are especially beneficial.
Used in Pollinator Gardens
Salvia clevelandii ‘Winnifred Gilman’ serves multiple functions in garden and landscape designs. It is an excellent addition to pollinator gardens, attracting a variety of bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds, which enhances the biodiversity of the environment. The plant’s aromatic foliage can also be enjoyed in herb gardens or mixed plantings where its fragrance contributes to the sensory experience of the space. Due to its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in well-draining soil, ‘Winnifred Gilman’ is frequently used in xeriscaping projects, contributing to sustainable landscaping practices. Whether used as a specimen plant, in borders, or as part of mixed plantings, it offers both aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits, enhancing outdoor spaces with its color, texture, and fragrance.
Plant Care
Care Instructions and Tips
Requires full sun to light shade for optimal growth and flowering.
Drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Prefers well-drained soils. Tolerates a variety of soil types, from sandy to loam.
Prune lightly after flowering to encourage a second bloom and maintain a compact shape. Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Features striking violet-blue flowers in late spring and early summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

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