Leucantha Plant: A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for This Beautiful Shrub

Are you looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to your garden? Look no further than the leucantha plant! This shrub, also known as Mexican bush sage or velvet sage, is native to Mexico and Central America and has become increasingly popular among gardeners in recent years. With its striking purple flowers and soft, velvety leaves, the leucantha plant can add a touch of elegance and charm to any outdoor space. But what exactly is this plant, and how do you grow and care for it? In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about the leucantha plant, from its history and characteristics to its growing requirements and common problems.

What Is a Leucantha Plant?

The leucantha plant is a shrub that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is known for its long, slender stems, which can grow up to four feet tall, and its velvety, green-gray leaves, which are about three inches long and one inch wide. The plant blooms in late summer and fall, producing spikes of tubular, lavender-colored flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. There are several varieties of leucantha plant, including 'Purple Velvet,' 'Santa Barbara' and 'San Carlos Festival.'

History and Origin

The leucantha plant is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows wild in open fields and along roadsides. It was first introduced to the United States in the early 1900s as an ornamental plant and has since become popular as a garden shrub. The plant's scientific name, Salvia leucantha, comes from the Latin words "salvus," meaning safe or healthy, and "leucanthus," meaning white-flowered.

Characteristics of a Leucantha Plant

The leucantha plant is a hardy and easy-to-grow shrub that thrives in warm, dry climates. Here are some of its key characteristics:

Leaves:

The leaves of the leucantha plant are soft and velvety to the touch, with a gray-green color that complements the plant's lavender flowers. They are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem and have a slightly serrated edge.

Flowers:

The leucantha plant produces spikes of tubular, lavender-colored flowers that are about one inch long. The flowers bloom in late summer and fall and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Growth habit:

The leucantha plant is a fast-growing shrub that can reach up to four feet tall and wide. It has a bushy growth habit and can spread quickly if not pruned regularly.

How to Grow and Care for a Leucantha Plant

Now that you know what a leucantha plant is and what it looks like, let's dive into how to grow and care for this beautiful shrub.

Planting Requirements

The leucantha plant is a relatively low-maintenance shrub that thrives in warm, dry climates. Here are some planting requirements to keep in mind:

Climate:

The leucantha plant prefers warm, sunny climates with well-draining soil. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers in these conditions.

Soil:

The leucantha plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH. It can tolerate some drought but will perform best with regular watering.

Light:

The leucantha plant requires full sun to thrive and produce abundant flowers. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as prolifically in these conditions.

Propagation

The leucantha plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or by division. Here's how to do it:

Stem cuttings:

Take a stem cutting from an established leucantha plant in the spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water regularly until it establishes roots.

Division:

Dig up an established leucantha plant in the spring or fall and divide it into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and water regularly until they establish new growth.

Care and Maintenance

The leucantha plant is a relatively low-maintenance shrub that requires little care beyond regular watering and pruning. Here are some tips for keeping your leucantha plant healthy and beautiful:

Watering:

Water your leucantha plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Be careful not to overwater, as the plant can develop root rot in soggy soil.

Fertilizing:

Fertilize your leucantha plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the winter, when the plant is dormant.

Pruning:

Prune your leucantha plant in the late winter or early spring to promote bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant to your desired size and shape.

Common Problems

Like all plants, the leucantha plant is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common problems to watch out for:

Pests:

The leucantha plant is relatively pest-resistant but can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat infestations with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Diseases:

The leucantha plant can develop root rot in soggy soil or suffer from fungal diseases like powdery mildew or leaf spot. Avoid overwatering and treat infections with a fungicide.

FAQs

1. Can you grow a leucantha plant indoors?

No, the leucantha plant requires full sun and well-draining soil to thrive and is not suitable for indoor growing.

2. How often should I water my leucantha plant?

Water your leucantha plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Be careful not to overwater, as the plant can develop root rot in soggy soil.

3. When is the best time to prune a leucantha plant?

Prune your leucantha plant in the late winter or early spring to promote bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.

4. What is the best fertilizer for a leucantha plant?

Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to feed your leucantha plant. Avoid fertilizing in the winter, when the plant is dormant.

5. How do I propagate a leucantha plant?

The leucantha plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or by division. Take a stem cutting in the spring or summer, or divide an established plant in the spring or fall.


The leucantha plant is a beautiful and low-maintenance shrub that can add a touch of elegance and charm to any outdoor space. With its striking purple flowers and soft, velvety leaves, this plant is sure to become a favorite among gardeners. By following the planting, care, and maintenance tips outlined in this article, you can grow and enjoy the beauty of a leucantha plant in your own garden.