A common perennial shrub in Texas, the Texas Sage or Cenizo (Leucophyllum frutescens) is known by many names, including Purple Sage, Silverleaf, Texas Ranger, and the most unusual name, Barometer Bush. That last name comes from the fact the bush often flowers after summer rains. Even though it has “sage” in its name, it is not a true sage. It is heat and cold-resistant and requires very little water. It seems to grow better in rocky and well-drained soils.
At our old home, we had it in a sloped area (first photo). We also have it in our current home near the front gate. It loves plenty of sun, and its flowers bloom all year round. Bees and butterflies are often found around these flowers. This is the official State Native Shrub of Texas.
That is the story behind the shots. If you liked this post, you might also be interested in others featuring Austin, FOTD, Teravista, Texas, Texas Sage, and Wildflowers. Until the next time, keep clicking and capturing the beauty your eyes find.
For Cee/Chris’ FOTD.
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niasunset
We have too in my country but yours different. I learned that there are over 900 species worldwide. These photographs are so beautiful. I also like to drink sage tea, is it drinkable like a tea yours too? Thank you dear Egidio, Have a nice day, Love, nia
Egidio Leitao
Thank you so much, Nia. Although tea can be made from the leaves and flowers, what I have read is that the tea does not a pleasing aroma or taste.
niasunset
Dear Egidio, I don’t know much about your sage in there but which is in here, it is very useful, I know, there are many different types of sage. It is tasty to drink it (the sage grown in our country) with lemon, but as I said, there are situations where it is very beneficial for health. I drank a lot and I can drink it again when necessary. Thank you dear Egidio, everything in nature has to offer is very interesting and beautiful. Have a nice day, LOve, nia
Egidio Leitao
I got that from your first note. Thanks for the reinforcement. I agree with your assessment about nature’s offerings. Enjoy your day!
niasunset
You are welcome dear Egidio, Have a nice day , Love, nia
shoreacres
I saw your comment on Steve’s blog this morning, and had to come visit. I assume that’s Tyler, Texas that you mentioned, and that was enough to stir some memories. My mother, my cat, and I rode out Hurricane Ike in Tyler; it was quite an experience.
You may know the story of how the Texas sage became our state’s official native shrub. For a variety of reasons, including some political lobbying, the legislature named the crape myrtle the state shrub, and native plant enthusiasts started their own lobbying, pointing out that crape myrtle’s non-native and really shouldn’t qualify as the state shrub. Eventually, compromise was reached, and the ‘barometer bush’ became our native state shrub.
Egidio Leitao
No, it’s Taylor, Texas. Thanks for the story behind the official shrub. Interesting fact.
philosophy through photography
Texas Sage: the plant that reads the weather better than my phone, blooms like a champ, and keeps bees and butterflies buzzing year-round. Texas knows its natives! 🌿🐝
Egidio Leitao
That’s a very assessment. Thanks for the comment.
philosophy through photography
Welcome, Egidio.
Namaste.
Tra Italia e Finlandia
È una bella pianta, che non conoscevo.
Egidio Leitao
Sono felice di averti mostrato una nuova pianta.
Writing to Freedom
This is a new flower to me and I love the color and fact it blooms year round. I’d love to see the spring wildflower display in person.
Egidio Leitao
It’s really a pretty flower. However, the plant can get very gnarly as it grows. Proper attention to pruning is essential.
Writing to Freedom
Good to know.
Wandering Dawgs
I love these beautiful Texas wildflowers! When we traveled through Texas in the spring a few years ago I loved seeing them everywhere.
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Beth. These wildflowers add so much color to our roads.
Nicole Sara
Wonderful images… and flower!
Egidio Leitao
Thanks, Nicole. I’m glad you liked it.