Leucophyllum candidum 'Microburst' PP33437
Microburst Texas Sage
Description
Origin and Adaptability:
Introducing the unique Texas Sage 'Microburst' PP33437, an extraordinary hybrid developed by Civano Growers to thrive in challenging landscapes. This exceptional plant is a testament to innovation and adaptability, boasting a dwarf size, and an unparalleled tolerance to heavy, damp soils. Originating from hybridization efforts, Texas Sage 'Microburst' is truly like no other before, offering a perfect solution for urban landscapes and gardens where drainage issues are prevalent.
Architectural Form and Foliage:
Texas Sage 'Microburst' presents a compact dwarf form, maturing to a perfectly proportioned three feet in both height and width. Its silver foliage provides a striking contrast against the landscape, creating a captivating visual appeal. Throughout the warm months, this unique hybrid bursts into bloom with an incredibly ultraviolet flower, adding a splash of vibrant color to its surroundings.
Floral Display and Growth Speed:
During the warm months, Texas Sage 'Microburst' becomes adorned with an abundance of bold ultraviolet flowers, attracting native pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Despite its smaller stature, this hybrid grows at a moderate pace, gradually filling in garden spaces with its dense foliage and prolific blooms, making it an excellent choice for landscape designs requiring controlled growth and compact form.
Light and Water Requirements:
Thriving in full sun exposure, Texas Sage 'Microburst' revels in the intense sunlight of hot climates, fueling its growth and flowering. Once established, it exhibits excellent drought tolerance, requiring minimal irrigation. What sets Texas Sage 'Microburst' apart is its exceptional ability to withstand poor drainage without damping off, making it a preferred choice for urban landscapes prone to waterlogging.
Wildlife and Pollinators:
The almost neon ultraviolet flowers of Texas Sage 'Microburst' serve as a valuable nectar source for native pollinators, including butterflies and bees, enhancing biodiversity in the garden. Its dense foliage also provides shelter and nesting sites for small birds and other wildlife, contributing to the ecological balance of the ecosystem.
Cultural Significance and Edibility:
While not traditionally used for food, Texas Sage 'Microburst' holds significance as a unique hybrid developed to withstand heat and challenging growing conditions. Its ability to thrive in urban landscapes and gardens with poor drainage makes it a valuable addition to modern landscape designs, providing beauty and functionality in equal measure.
Challenges and Considerations:
Texas Sage 'Microburst' is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its compact form and remove spent flowers. Proper watering practices are essential during the establishment phase to encourage healthy root development. Additionally, while tolerant of heavy, damp soils, ensuring adequate drainage is still recommended to prevent potential issues.
Integration into Landscape Designs:
With its unique attributes and adaptability, Texas Sage 'Microburst' is a versatile addition to a variety of landscape designs. Landscape architects and designers can utilize it as a focal point in urban gardens, as a border plant in mixed beds, or as a low-maintenance option for water-wise landscapes. Its gorgeous flowers and compact form make it an excellent choice for adding color and interest to modern outdoor spaces.
USDA Zone Range
USDA Zone 7-11
Mature Height
3 feet
Flower Color
Ultraviolet
Native Region
Variety
Shrub
Soil Type
well-drained, rocky, caliche, clay, sandy
Planting Guidelines
Be aware of its mature dwarf size when considering garden or container placement
Maintenance
This shrub prefers poor-quality soil and is best to not over-fertilize.
Elevation Range
Mature Width
3 feet
Plant Type
Shrub
Growth Habit
Dwarf, clonal, symmetrical rounded growth. Very dense, tight form. Very compact.
Wildlife and Pollinators
hummingbirds, butterflies, birds, bees
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun to part shade
Water Requirements
Low to moderate water
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary due to its natural rounded form. Selective pruning to remove dead branches can maintain attractiveness. Avoid shearing as it will reduce longevity.