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Description
Salvia Chamelaeagnea, commonly known as blue sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to southern California and northern Baja California, Mexico. The plant has a woody base that produces multiple stems that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The stems are square-shaped and covered with fine white hairs. The leaves are grayish-green and have a lanceolate shape with serrated edges. The flowers are deep blue or violet, and they bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Blue sage has a unique appearance with its square-shaped stems and grayish-green leaves. The leaves are about 2-3 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The plant produces multiple stems that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The stems are covered with fine white hairs that give the plant a fuzzy texture. The flowers are deep blue or violet, and they bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are arranged in whorls around the stem and can grow up to 2 inches long.
Care Guide
Blue sage is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your blue sage plant:Water: Blue sage prefers well-draining soil and needs to be watered regularly. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during the hot summer months.Fertilization: Blue sage does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Blue sage prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.Sunlight: Blue sage prefers full sun to part shade. Plant the sage in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Blue sage is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blue sage is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:Pests: The plant may attract spider mites or aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.Diseases: The plant may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Blue sage is native to southern California and northern Baja California, Mexico. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can blue sage be used in cooking?
A: Yes, blue sage has a minty flavor and can be used in cooking as a seasoning.Q: Is blue sage deer-resistant?
A: Yes, blue sage is deer-resistant.Q: How often should I fertilize my blue sage plant?
A: Blue sage does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Q: Can blue sage be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, blue sage can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to blue sage:- Salvia leucophylla (Purple sage)- Salvia apiana (White sage)- Salvia mellifera (Black sage)- Salvia clevelandii (Cleveland sage)- Salvia sonomensis (Creeping sage)
References
– “Salvia Chamelaeagnea.” California Native Plant Society. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/plant-profiles/salvia-chamelaeagnea- “Salvia Chamelaeagnea.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3896- “Salvia Chamelaeagnea.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/419–salvia-chamelaeagnea
