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Description
Salvia Albicaulis, commonly known as white-stemmed sage, is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family. It is native to California and can be found in various habitats such as chaparral, oak woodlands, and sage scrub. This plant can grow up to a height of 3-4 feet and a spread of 2-3 feet. It has a woody base and white stems that give it its common name. The leaves are narrow and gray-green in color, while the flowers are lavender-pink and bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
The leaves of Salvia Albicaulis are narrow, gray-green in color, and about 1-3 inches long. The flowers are lavender-pink, tubular in shape, and grow in a whorl around the stem. They bloom in the summer and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The plant has a woody base and white stems that can reach a height of 3-4 feet. It has a spread of 2-3 feet and can be grown as a shrub or groundcover.
Care Guide
Salvia Albicaulis is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but make sure the soil is well-draining to avoid waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Salvia Albicaulis prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Albicaulis is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and avoid overwatering. If infestations occur, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Salvia Albicaulis is native to California and can be found in various habitats such as chaparral, oak woodlands, and sage scrub. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade. It is also drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salvia Albicaulis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Albicaulis can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: How often should I prune Salvia Albicaulis?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to promote new growth. You can also deadhead the flowers to encourage more blooms.
Q: Is Salvia Albicaulis deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Albicaulis is deer-resistant.
Q: Can I propagate Salvia Albicaulis from cuttings?
A: Yes, Salvia Albicaulis can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the late summer or early fall.
Related Plants
- Salvia Apiana (White Sage)
- Salvia Officinalis (Common Sage)
- Salvia Coccinea (Scarlet Sage)
- Salvia Greggii (Autumn Sage)
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/salvia_albicaulis.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/salvia-albicaulis-white-stemmed-sage
- https://calscape.org/Salvia-albicaulis-()
