Mexican bush sage (Salvia leucantha) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The general pruning approach is to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You should also prune stems that are crossing or rubbing against each other to prevent wounds and improve air circulation. Mexican bush sage can be lightly shaped into a compact form by pruning back up to one-third of the plant’s length. However, avoid over-pruning as it can reduce blooming and lead to leggy growth. Also, take care not to remove all the current year’s growth as Mexican bush sage blooms on new growth.