Salvia greggii is one of the best options when beginning a gardening career. There is little to do, as the free-flowering evergreen perennial can survive in arid, cold, wet and hot climates without much trouble. Its bushy, mid-green foliage comprises small ovate leaves, and when flowering, it produces small clusters of delicate-looking tubular blossoms of purple, pink or white, with distinctive flared lower lips. Known as Autumn Sage, it thrives in well-drained soil and in full sun, while occasional light pruning is recommended to encourage healthy development. Best of all, its vivid colour late into autumn is the payoff for a minimal amount of work.