In southern California, it grows in stands in plant communities of coastal sage scrub, and is often the dominant species.
Leaves form thick rosettes at the ends of the stems, though leaves along the stem are fairly sparse.
The 4-sided stems are typical of all members of the mint family. S. apiana's stems are sticky and as thick as leaves and petioles. Mature shrubs reach 2- to six feet in height. In some areas, especially in California, the shrubs cover the entire hillsides. White sage is found with other sages and cross-pollinates to form many hybrid varieties.