Texas sage

Leucophyllum frutescens

Zones: 8a to 11b per NC State

Pet & Human Safety

People: Not researchedPets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

No ASPCA entry for Leucophyllum frutescens was found (a search for cenizo found no species page). The ASPCA entry named 'Texas Sage' is Salvia coccinea (non-toxic), a different plant, and is not this shrub's verdict. NC State shows no poison line or pet tag. no listing means not found, not safe. Name trap: the ASPCA page called "Texas Sage" is Salvia coccinea, a different plant (non-toxic); it does not clear this one.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Look-alike warning

Could be mistaken for Other plants with a similar name or look. To tell them apart: Match on the scientific name, Leucophyllum frutescens, not on the common name.. 'Texas sage' is used for two different plants. Leucophyllum frutescens (NC State, UF/IFAS) is an evergreen shrub; ASPCA and Clemson HGIC use 'Texas sage' for Salvia coccinea (scarlet sage), a different plant. ASPCA lists the Salvia as non-toxic. Do not carry that verdict, or that plant's care, over to Leucophyllum. Match by Latin name.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

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Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 8a to 11b per NC State
Water needs: low
Mature size: NC State: 6 to 12 ft tall and 6 to 12 ft wide; medium growth rate.
Family: Scrophulariaceae (NC State)
Where it comes from: NC State: southwest Texas and Mexico; introduced in the Dominican Republic and El Salvador.

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

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