Also known as Wild Sage, Red Sage, Yellow Sage, Tickberry
Dense clusters of small, tubular flowers shift in color from yellow to bright orange and crimson as they mature, creating vibrant multi-colored flower heads. The pungent, aromatic foliage covers prickly square stems that form thick, impenetrable thickets across warm landscapes. While popular in cultivated gardens for attracting butterflies, unmanaged plants crowd out native vegetation and disrupt local ecosystems.
Foliage and unripe berries are toxic to livestock and pets; wild berries have toxic look-alikes.
Why it is dangerous
Contains pentacyclic triterpenoids called lantadines, causing severe liver damage and photosensitization if ingested, while rough stem hairs irritate skin.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Recognized by square, mildly prickly stems, aromatic textured leaves, and small flower heads shifting from yellow to orange or red.
What to do
Wear gloves when pruning or pulling plants, and keep pets and livestock away from foliage and berries.
Responsible observation
Garden Containment: Choose sterile, non-invasive cultivars to enjoy the flowers without spreading seeds into natural areas.
Pollinator Watching: Observe flower clusters on warm sunny afternoons to spot hovering butterflies and bees.
