Hummingbird Sage, also known as Salvia spathacea, is a hardy plant that has the ability to go dormant in the summer months. This means that during hot and dry periods, the plant can enter a state of dormancy where it conserves its energy and reduces its above-ground growth.
During this dormant period, the leaves of Hummingbird Sage may turn brown and dry up, giving the appearance that the plant is suffering. However, this is a natural response to the plant’s environment and is not a cause for concern. The plant is simply conserving its resources until conditions improve.
While Hummingbird Sage has the ability to go dormant, it can also be kept evergreen with occasional irrigation. If you provide the plant with regular water during the summer months, it can remain lush and green, rather than entering dormancy. This is especially important in areas with prolonged periods of drought or high temperatures.
In regions where temperatures remain in the 20’s during the winter, Hummingbird Sage can also remain evergreen throughout the colder months. The plant is able to tolerate low temperatures and can continue to grow and thrive, providing year-round foliage and interest in the garden.
However, it’s important to note that Hummingbird Sage may still experience some dieback or browning of leaves during harsh winter conditions. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern. The plant will typically bounce back and regrow in the spring when temperatures warm up.
In my personal experience with Hummingbird Sage, I have observed the plant going dormant during particularly hot and dry summers. The leaves turned brown and shriveled up, but as soon as the weather improved and I provided the plant with some water, it quickly rebounded and began to grow again. It’s truly a resilient plant that can adapt to its environment.
To summarize, Hummingbird Sage has the ability to go dormant in the summer months, but it can also be kept evergreen with occasional irrigation. In regions with cold winter temperatures, the plant can remain evergreen throughout the winter. It’s a tough and resilient plant that can withstand adverse conditions and bounce back with proper care.
