Cullumia Decurrens

Description

Cullumia Decurrens, commonly known as the Blue Sage or Blue Lips, is an evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Mexico, where it grows abundantly in the wild, but is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world. The plant has a bushy habit and can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It produces beautiful blue-violet flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cullumia Decurrens has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other plants. It has a woody stem and its leaves are green, smooth, and lance-shaped, with serrated edges. The plant produces long spikes of blue-violet flowers that form clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers have two lips, with the upper lip being hooded and the lower lip being three-lobed. The plant’s leaves and stems have a pleasant minty fragrance when crushed, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy.

Care Guide

Cullumia Decurrens is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Blue Sage healthy and thriving:

Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering.

Soil: Plant your Blue Sage in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting it in heavy clay soil.

Sunlight: Cullumia Decurrens prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones: Blue Sage is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can tolerate some frost but may need protection in colder regions.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cullumia Decurrens is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent infestations, keep your plant healthy and avoid overwatering. If you notice signs of pests, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be prone to root rot if overwatered, so make sure the soil is well-draining.

Habitat

Cullumia Decurrens is native to Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky soils in the wild. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping. It can also be grown in containers and is a great addition to herb gardens, rock gardens, and Mediterranean-style landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Cullumia Decurrens toxic to pets?

A: While Cullumia Decurrens is not toxic to humans, it can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keep your plant out of reach of pets to avoid accidental ingestion.

Q: How often should I prune my Blue Sage?

A: Prune your plant in the spring to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also deadhead spent flowers to promote more blooms.

Q: Can I propagate Cullumia Decurrens from cuttings?

A: Yes, you can propagate Blue Sage from stem cuttings in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in partial shade until they establish roots.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Blue Sage?

A: Fertilize your plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid overfertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Related Plants

If you love Cullumia Decurrens, you may also like these related plants:

• Lavender (Lavandula)
• Salvia (Salvia)
• Rosemary (Rosmarinus)
• Thyme (Thymus)

References

• Bonnie Plants. (n.d.). Blue Lips. Retrieved from https://bonnieplants.com/product/blue-lips/
• Gardening Know How. (2021). Cullumia Decurrens Information: Learn About Blue Lips Care. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/blue-lips/caring-for-blue-lips.htm
• Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. (n.d.). Cullumia Decurrens. Retrieved from https://www.rsabg.org/collections/plants/cullumia-decurrens/