That spectacular shrub in the photo below is a member of the sage family which contains ideal plantings for "Our Surroundings."

This particular variety has silvery green leaves that hang on all year long, although they do shrivel a little during the winter.

It’s a native plant that doesn’t take much work. Stick a sage into the ground, give it a little water, and watch in amazement as it grows at a very rapid rate.

I planted this one only four years ago as a spindly two-footer.

Those stunning blossoms actually don't last all that long. They usually drop off within three or four days.

But what I like most is that the shrub will re-bloom, after a heavy rain. As do all sages.

I know that, because I have another one with avocado green leaves and purple blooms. And one with silver leaves and blue blooms. So far, all three shrubs have bloomed three times, beginning in early July.

The flowers also attract bees, but you can dip your nose in to catch a whiff of the very subtle fragrance that attracts them. The bees won't mind, even though they may be the very dangerous Africanized bees.

Every time I've dipped to take a sniff, the bees have politely moved aside. So far.

I just planted another so-far thriving sage that will produce white blooms during our Monsoon Season next year.

I can hardly wait...

The best source for sages is the Civano Nursery on the east side of Tucson. It grows five varieties on its farm in Sahaurita, and its staff is very knowlegeable. You will find directions here: http://www.civanonursery.net/directions.shtml >>