Contents
Description
Lepechinia Calycina, commonly known as pitcher sage, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to California and Baja California, Mexico. This perennial plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, with woody stems and fragrant, sage-like leaves. The flowers are tubular, pink or lavender in color, and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Lepechinia |
Appearance
The foliage of Lepechinia Calycina is evergreen, with thick, hairy leaves that can vary in color from gray-green to dark green. The leaves are triangular in shape and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems and have a distinctive pitcher shape, giving the plant its common name. The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Care Guide
Lepechinia Calycina is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Do not overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with good drainage.
- Sunlight: Lepechinia Calycina prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lepechinia Calycina is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Watch for signs of powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide. Spider mites and aphids can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Lepechinia Calycina is native to California and Baja California, Mexico, where it grows in rocky, dry habitats such as chaparral and coastal sage scrub. It is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
- Q: Can Lepechinia Calycina be grown in containers?
- A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers, but make sure the soil has good drainage and it is not overwatered.
- Q: Is Lepechinia Calycina deer-resistant?
- A: Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant.
- Q: How often should Lepechinia Calycina be fertilized?
- A: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Q: How tall can Lepechinia Calycina grow?
- A: This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Lepechinia fragrans
- Lepechinia hastata
- Lepechinia rossii
- Lepechinia cardiophylla
References
- Calflora: Information on California plants for education, research and conservation. [web application]. 2022. Berkeley, California: The Calflora Database. Available: https://www.calflora.org/ (Accessed: Mar 19, 2022).
- Lepechinia calycina. (2022). Retrieved March 19, 2022, from https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lepechinia_calycina.shtml
- Lepechinia calycina. (2022). Retrieved March 19, 2022, from https://www.plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LECA5
