Perennial Herb or Subshrub: Tolerates drought, deer and gophers. Fire retardant. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Bushy shrub that produces long, slender velvety spikes. Bloom time: spring-fall. Foliage color: grayish-green with whitish-colored undersides. Bloom color: dark purple with dark purple calyx. Height: 3-5'. Width: 3-5'. Exposure: sun/part shade. Water: moderate/dry. USDA Z9.