Salvia Platyphylla

Description

Salvia Platyphylla, commonly known as the red velvet sage or the giant red sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. The plant is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in New Mexico and Texas. It can grow up to a height of 3-4 feet and spread up to 4-6 feet. The plant has a woody base with upright, hairy stems and dark green leaves that are velvety to the touch. The flowers of Salvia Platyphylla are tubular, bright red, and grow in clusters at the top of the stems.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Salvia Platyphylla plant grows up to a height of 3-4 feet and spreads up to 4-6 feet. The plant has a woody base with upright, hairy stems and dark green leaves that are velvety to the touch. The leaves of the plant are 3-5 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. The flowers of Salvia Platyphylla are tubular, bright red, and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers are about 1 inch long and bloom from late spring until fall. The plant has a strong, pleasant fragrance, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.

Care Guide

Salvia Platyphylla is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

Water

The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.

Fertilization

Salvia Platyphylla does not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize the plant once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula.

Soil

The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Sunlight

The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide the plant with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.

Hardiness Zones

The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F and as high as 110°F.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Salvia Platyphylla plant is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and spider mites. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant has good soil drainage and adequate air circulation. If necessary, treat the plant with an appropriate fungicide or insecticide.

Habitat

Salvia Platyphylla is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in New Mexico and Texas. The plant prefers dry, rocky soils and is commonly found in desert scrub, grasslands, and woodland areas. The plant is well-adapted to hot, dry climates and can tolerate drought conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Salvia Platyphylla deer resistant?

A: Yes, Salvia Platyphylla is deer resistant.

Q: Can Salvia Platyphylla be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Salvia Platyphylla can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Q: How often should I prune Salvia Platyphylla?

A: Prune Salvia Platyphylla after the blooming season to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or diseased branches.

Q: How do I propagate Salvia Platyphylla?

A: Salvia Platyphylla can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball in the spring or fall.

Related Plants

• Salvia Farinacea
• Salvia Greggii
• Salvia Leucantha
• Salvia Officinalis
• Salvia Sclarea

References

• “Salvia Platyphylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c765>
• “Salvia Platyphylla.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Accessed 15 August 2021. <https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/southerngarden/salvia-platyphylla/>
• “Salvia Platyphylla.” Arizona State University. Accessed 15 August 2021. <https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetail.php?genus=Salvia&species=platyphylla>