Salvia Roemeriana

Description

Salvia Roemeriana, also known as Cedar Sage, is a small evergreen shrub native to Texas and Mexico. This plant is a member of the mint family and is known for its striking red flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Cedar Sage is loved by many gardeners for its ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cedar Sage has a compact, bushy growth habit and can reach a height of up to 3 feet. The leaves are oval-shaped, about 1-2 inches long, and have a gray-green color. The bright red flowers bloom in clusters at the tips of the stems and are tubular in shape, with two lips that are slightly unequal in size. Each flower is about 1 inch long and has a pleasant, minty fragrance. Cedar Sage is a deciduous plant, but it can keep its leaves in mild winters.

Care Guide

Water

Cedar Sage prefers well-draining soil and doesn’t like to be overwatered. It’s best to water it once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

Cedar Sage doesn’t require much fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer once in the spring to promote healthy growth.

Soil

Cedar Sage prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. You can amend the soil with compost or sand to improve the drainage.

Sunlight

Cedar Sage prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause it to become leggy and sparse.

Hardiness Zones

Cedar Sage is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate temperatures down to 10°F (-12°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Cedar Sage is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if it’s overwatered. You can prevent this by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.

Habitat

Cedar Sage is native to Texas and Mexico and can be found growing in rocky hillsides, limestone outcrops, and along stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Cedar Sage be grown indoors?
A: Cedar Sage is best grown outdoors in full sun to partial shade. It can be grown in containers, but it needs plenty of space to grow and thrive.Q: How often should I prune Cedar Sage?
A: Cedar Sage doesn’t require much pruning. You can prune it in the fall to remove any dead or damaged branches and shape it as needed.Q: How do I propagate Cedar Sage?
A: Cedar Sage can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the summer. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in well-draining soil. Keep it moist until it roots.Q: Can Cedar Sage be used for cooking?
A: Cedar Sage has a pleasant, minty fragrance, but it’s not commonly used for cooking. It’s best enjoyed in the garden or as a cut flower.

Related Plants

• Salvia Greggii
• Salvia Farinacea
• Salvia Coccinea
• Salvia Leucantha

References

• “Salvia Roemeriana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin.
• “Cedar Sage.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
• “Salvia Roemeriana.” Missouri Botanical Garden.