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Description
Salvia Leptostachys is a perennial plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. It is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is commonly known as Mexican sage. Its scientific name, Salvia Leptostachys, is derived from the Latin words “salvere” meaning to heal and “leptostachys” meaning slender spike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
The Mexican sage plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It has slender stems with dark green, lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers of Salvia Leptostachys are tubular, and they grow in clusters on spikes up to 1 foot long. The flowers are typically bright red, but they can also be orange, pink, or white. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Salvia Leptostachys is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for your Mexican sage:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater it. Mexican sage prefers well-draining soil and can be sensitive to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: Plant your Mexican sage in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Salvia Leptostachys prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Sunlight: Salvia Leptostachys prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some afternoon shade in hot climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Mexican sage is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Leptostachys is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep your plant healthy and free of debris. If you do notice an infestation, treat your plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mexican sage can also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Salvia Leptostachys is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including dry forests, woodlands, and grasslands. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate periods of drought. Mexican sage is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salvia Leptostachys deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Mexican sage is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Salvia Leptostachys be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mexican sage can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should Salvia Leptostachys be fertilized?
A: Mexican sage should be fertilized in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Salvia Leptostachys attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Mexican sage attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Related Plants
- Salvia greggii
- Salvia elegans
- Salvia guaranitica
- Salvia coccinea
References
- “Salvia Leptostachys.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f318.
- “Salvia Leptostachys.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/library/landscaping/salvia-leptostachys/.
