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Whittier Narrows

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  • Purple Sage

     

    Purple sage (Salvia leucophylla) is a shrub 3 to 5 feet tall.  The leaves can vary from 1/2 to 2 inches long and have small rounded teeth on their edges with prominent veins.  It is common in Coastal Sage environments.  The flowers can be rosy-lavender or lilac, in compat whorls and bloom from May to June.  It is favored by bees and it is known to hybridize with other species.  It is said that all Salvias have antibiotic and antimicrobial properties.   Used in teas for sore throats, coughs and other respiratory discomforts, mostly in the absence of white or black sage.