Salvia regla Cav.

Nomenclature and Common Names

Salvia regla Cav., commonly called Mountain sage and also known as the "queen of the Chisos Mountains", is a deciduous perennial shrub native to a small area of the Chisos Mountains in west Texas and a large area of Mexico, spanning the Mexican states of Coahuila, Durango, and Oaxaca.

Its specific epithet is likely derived from the town of Regla in the Mexican state of Hidalgo.

Size and Growth Habit

This species grows to 6 feet tall and 4 to 5 feet wide, with upright stems that give it a stately appearance.

Leaf Characteristics

Its mistletoe-green deltoid leaves are deeply veined, and measure about 1 inch wide and 1 inch long.

Flower Structure and Coloration

The flower tube is 1 inch long, with a 1-inch signal-red calyx that faces toward light and is chartreuse on its underside.

Ecological Role

Salvia regla has been widely planted along the Texas flyway used by migrating birds, and is an important food source for hummingbirds returning to the tropics in September and October.

Horticultural History

Although it was first introduced into horticulture in 1839, it remained very uncommon until the 1980s.

Cultivars

Nurseries currently sell several cultivars of this species, including 'Royal', 'Mount Emory', and 'Warnock's Choice'.