Contents
Description
Salvia Farinacea Victoria, commonly known as Victoria blue Salvia, is a perennial plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to Mexico and Texas and is widely used for ornamental purposes due to its vibrant blue flowers. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and has a spread of about 1-2 feet. The flowers bloom in summer and fall and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
The Salvia Farinacea Victoria plant has long, narrow, green leaves that grow up to 4 inches long. The leaves are covered with a fine layer of hair, giving them a silvery appearance. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the stems and are tubular-shaped, with a vibrant blue color. The flowers can grow up to 1 inch long and have a white lower lip. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Salvia Farinacea Victoria is a low-maintenance plant and is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Salvia Farinacea Victoria in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Salvia Farinacea Victoria plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and promote good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Salvia Farinacea Victoria plant is native to Mexico and Texas and is commonly found in dry, rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand hot and dry weather conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Salvia Farinacea Victoria plant poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous and is safe for humans and pets.
Q: Can the Salvia Farinacea Victoria plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the plant is provided with adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How often should I prune the Salvia Farinacea Victoria plant?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also pinch back the stems during the growing season to promote bushier growth and more flowers.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Salvia Farinacea Victoria plant?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Salvia leucantha
- Salvia guaranitica
- Salvia mexicana
- Salvia coccinea
References
- “Salvia Farinacea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j660.
- “Victoria Blue Salvia.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, 2021, agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/browse/featured-solutions/gardening-landscaping/victoria-blue-salvia/.
- “Salvia Farinacea.” NC State Extension Publications, 2019, content.ces.ncsu.edu/salvia-farinacea.
