Weeping Sage
Buddleja auriculata
Also known as
Treursalie (Afr.), Utile
Photo by leeT (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Light watering
Half-hardy
10a
USDA zone
-1°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
4m | Max | 4m |
2.5m | Min | 2.5m |
2 years to reach maturity
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has a strong fragrance
More images of Weeping Sage
Weeping Sage Overview
Buddleja (or Buddleia) auriculata is also known by the name Weeping Sage. Treated as a small tree or a dense shrub it is often planted for the lovely orange fragrance of its flowers. An evergreen shrub growing up to 3m, it has lance-shaped, glossy, dark green leaves that are white beneath; its small orange-centred, tubular, cream-white flowers appear on dense panicles in autumn and winter. These are particularly attractive to butterflies and other pollinating insects. Native to South Africa, Weeping Sage is often used as an informal hedge or windbreak - not least because it grows fast. Buddleia auriculata grows well in full sun or partial shade and is tolerant of dry sites. It is only half-hardy, so it likes a sheltered spot and it will only cope with mild frost. ZA Distribution: Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga.
Common problems with Weeping Sage
How to harvest Weeping Sage
The best time to harvest the flowers is after sunset, as the scent is even stronger at this time.
How to propagate Weeping Sage
Cuttings
Simply root the semi-ripe hardwood cuttings during growing season in summer.
Seed
Sow seed in Autumn in sand and keep moist.
Special features of Weeping Sage
Attracts birds
Attracts especially Southern Boubou's and Cape Robins. The thick foliage also provides safe shelter for other birds and their nests.
Attracts useful insects
Nectar-loving insects like butterflies are attracted to the flowers.
Drought resistant
Moderate tolerance for dry conditions in hot weather.
Attracts butterflies
Attractive flowers
Wind break
Repels harmful insects
Hedge plant
Should be planted relatively close together so that the branches can intertwine.
Winter colour
Other uses of Weeping Sage
Garden plants
Buddlejas attract birds and insects to your garden, they can make effective hedges and are water-wise plants.
