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Description
Salvia Nipponica, commonly known as Japanese sage, is an herbaceous perennial plant native to Japan. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is widely used for its medicinal and ornamental purposes. The plant features a square stem with opposite leaves and produces spikes of purple-blue flowers in summer. With a maximum height of 2-3 feet and a spread of 1-2 feet, Salvia Nipponica adds a splash of color to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Salvia Nipponica has a compact and bushy growth habit. Its leaves are ovate to oblong and have a dark green color with a slightly serrated margin. The flowers are arranged in whorls along the stem and are tubular with two lips. They have a rich blue-purple color and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and produces a lovely fragrance. Salvia Nipponica can be propagated through cuttings or division.
Care Guide
Water: Salvia Nipponica prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Fertilize Salvia Nipponica with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.Soil: Salvia Nipponica thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve its fertility and drainage.Sunlight: Salvia Nipponica prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide it with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.Hardiness Zones: Salvia Nipponica is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Nipponica is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control these pests.
Habitat
Salvia Nipponica is native to the woodlands and meadows of Japan. It thrives in moist, well-draining soil and prefers a temperate climate. The plant can be grown in gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salvia Nipponica deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Nipponica is deer-resistant due to its strong fragrance.Q: Can Salvia Nipponica be grown indoors?
A: No, Salvia Nipponica is an outdoor plant and requires full sun to thrive.Q: How often should Salvia Nipponica be pruned?
A: Prune Salvia Nipponica in early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and shape the plant. Pinch back the stems in summer to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.Q: Can Salvia Nipponica be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Salvia Nipponica has been traditionally used in Japanese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Salvia Nipponica:
- Salvia Divinorum
- Salvia Officinalis
- Salvia Greggii
- Salvia Azurea
- Salvia Sylvestris
References
- “Salvia nipponica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b339>.
- “Salvia nipponica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/26386/Salvia-nipponica/Details>.
- “Salvia nipponica.” Plant Information Online. Accessed 30 Aug. 2021. <https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1435582>.
