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Description
Salvia Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis, commonly known as sage, is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the mint family and is widely used in cooking for its aromatic and flavorful leaves. The leaves are grayish-green and have a slightly fuzzy texture. Sage produces small purple flowers in late spring or early summer, which attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Sage plants can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide. The leaves are oblong and measure about 2-3 inches long. They have a slightly fuzzy texture and are grayish-green in color. The flowers are small and tubular, measuring about 1/2 inch long. They are typically purple, but can also be white, pink or blue. Sage plants have a woody stem and can become quite bushy with age.
Care Guide
Sage plants are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in containers or in the ground. Here are some tips:
- Water: Sage plants prefer well-draining soil and do not like to be overwatered. Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Sage plants do not require much fertilizer. You can feed them with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Sage plants prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.0. You can amend your soil with compost to improve drainage and fertility.
- Sunlight: Sage plants prefer full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.
- Hardiness Zones: Sage plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sage plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can still be affected by a few common issues:
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation.
- Root Rot: A fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. To prevent, avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining.
- Spider Mites: Small pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. To prevent, keep the plant well-hydrated and spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Sage plants are native to the Mediterranean region, where they grow in rocky, well-draining soil in sunny locations. They are drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my sage plant?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can I grow sage in a container?
A: Yes, sage plants can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and receive enough sunlight.
Q: How tall do sage plants grow?
A: Sage plants can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for sage plants?
A: Sage plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Salvia Officinalis Subsp. Purpurascens
- Salvia Officinalis Subsp. Triloba
- Salvia Lavandulaefolia
- Salvia Nemorosa
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center. (2021). Sage. Retrieved from https://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/sage
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Salvia officinalis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280414&isprofile=0&
- RHS. (2021). Salvia officinalis. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/79275/Salvia-officinalis/Details
