How to Care for a Texas Sage Bush
A Texas sage bush--also known as "cenizo"--is native to Texas. The plant grows as a mid-sized compact shrub, and has thin silvery leaves. Atmospheric humidity right before or after a rain causes the plant to bloom. For this reason, Texas sage bush is often referred to as a "barometric bush." Texas sage is found in the southern United States, and needs specific care in order to grow.
Plant Texas sage in full sun, where the plant receives at least eight hours of sun per day. Shade stunts the growth of a Texas sage bush. Sage bushes that receive too much shade do not bloom.
- A Texas sage bush--also known as "cenizo"--is native to Texas.
- Plant Texas sage in full sun, where the plant receives at least eight hours of sun per day.
Water the Texas sage bush very rarely, if at all. Texas sage bushes do not like moisture. The plant can survive on occasional rains. Water only if your area is rain-free for several months. Avoid watering during the late fall and winter months. Texas sage is dormant during cold months, and will not drink water during these months.
Prune during early March, using pruning shears. Cut off dead wood, and thin, sickly stems. Do not over-trim or try to shape the plant. The uneven, bushy look is part of the Texas sage's charm, and it grows best when allowed to grow naturally.
- Water the Texas sage bush very rarely, if at all.
- The uneven, bushy look is part of the Texas sage's charm, and it grows best when allowed to grow naturally.
Refrain from using fertilizers. The Texas sage is a strong and hardy plant that has adapted itself to a harsh environment. The plant thrives on neglect, and grows independent of any outside assistance from a home gardener.
Care For A Texas Sage Bush
Texas sage (Leucophyllum frutescens) plants are easy-care, compact, drought-resistant and attractive bushes. Purchase seeds from a nursery or online seed company. Make the cutting during the summer and after a flower blooming spurt. Do not fertilize the plant or add compost to soil. Stop watering the plant during winter. Too much water decreases the frequency of blooms, causes the foliage to flop and increases the chances of root rot. Texas sage bushes regenerate at a fast rate.
- Refrain from using fertilizers.
- Too much water decreases the frequency of blooms, causes the foliage to flop and increases the chances of root rot.
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References
- AZ Central
- Texas A&M Horticulture
- University of Florida Environmental Horticulture: Leucophyllum Frutescens
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Native Plant Database: Leucophyllum Frutescens
- Arizona State University: Virtual Library of Phoenix Landscape Plants: Leucophyllum Frutescens
- Floridata: Leucophyllum Frutescens
- Sunset: Leucophyllum Frutescens
- Texas Native Plants Database: Texas Sage
Writer Bio
Elizabeth Balarini is a freelance writer and professional blogger who began writing professionally in 2006. Her work has been published on several websites. Her articles focus on where her passions lie: writing, web development, blogging, home and garden, and health and wellness. Balarini majored in English at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
