White sage, scientifically named Salvia Apiana, is a hardy plant that grows well in Colorado indoors and out. A native perennial, white sage can reach heights of up to 4.9 feet when grown outdoors.

 The plant has woody stems and fragrant leaves that can be used for incense, and it's prized for its reputed purifying and healing properties in many folk and native traditions. Whether you're thinking of growing sage as a houseplant or as a garden plant, here are a few basics you should know.

White sage requires lots of light and plenty of warmth. If you're growing it outdoors, place it in an area of full sun. If you're white sage is of the indoor variety, locate it near a sunny window and rotate the plant frequently so that it will get enough sunlight on all sides.

Grow your sage plant in well-drained soil. Add a little compost to the soil if desired, though this is usually not necessary as the plant can thrive in dry, arid land with little nutrients. Make sure the soil is free of hard clumps, rocks, or other debris that could inhibit root growth.

Make sure your sage has adequate room to branch out and grow. Generally, the more room it has to expand, the larger size will it reach. If you're growing the sage indoors as a houseplant, take care that the pot you choose is not too narrow or too shallow. If you're planting the sage outside, be sure that other plants are far enough away that they won't encroach on its area.

Once your sage is well-established, you can begin harvesting the fragrant fruits of your labor. Never take more than one-fifth of a plants growth, and never clip off brand new shoots or leaves. Choose a few stems with plenty of leaves, and break them off at the base. Dry them in the sun or hang them upside down in a warm area until the moisture has evaporated. Tie the sage stems into a bundle secured with twine, then light the end and blow out the flame to release an incense smoke to add good energy and a fresh scent to your home.