Lyreleaf Sage is an amazing ground cover that is heat, humidity, and drought tolerant, evergreen, and tough enough to tolerate being walked on and mowed over. It’s long tubular flowers are particularly attractive to bees and hummingbirds, and gold finches will eat the seeds. Its aggressive spread and tolerance for a wide variety of growing conditions make it an excellent lawn alternative.

Care requirements:

Light requirements: Full sun-Part Shade

Water requirements: Medium

Soil requirements: Medium-Moist, well-drained

Bloom time: April-June

Bloom color: Purple, white

Height: 1-2 feet

Width: 0.75-1 foot

USDA Zone: 5-9

Other notes: Lyreleaf sage prefers full sun and is somewhat resistant to deer. It will also tolerate occasional flooding and wet soil, so it is a good option for a rain garden. It will reseed readily in the appropriate environment but may need help in the beginning to compete with other taller, more aggressive species. It is a member of the mint family, so once it is established it will spread aggressively to form an attractive ground cover. Spread is easily controlled with dead-heading spent flowers and removing seedlings.

Do you have Lyreleaf sage growing in your garden? Do you have any tips or tricks for growing it you would like to share? Do you know of any Southeastern nurseries that regularly stock it? Let us know in the comments!