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Description
Passerina Rigida, commonly known as the stiff blue sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and is commonly found in deserts, prairies, and rocky slopes. The plant has light blue to violet-colored flowers that bloom from May to October, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Passerina |
Appearance
The stiff blue sage grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, with a grayish-green color, and can grow up to 2 inches long. The plant’s flowers, which bloom on spikes, are tubular and have two lips, with the upper lip being hooded and the lower lip three-lobed. The flowers are usually 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide, and their color can range from light blue to deep violet.
Care Guide
Passerina Rigida is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9. Here are some care tips for growing stiff blue sage:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Use well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: Plant the stiff blue sage in full sunlight to promote flowering and healthy growth.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Passerina Rigida is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies, especially if the plant is stressed or weakened. Diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot. Here are some ways to prevent and treat pests and diseases:
- Pests: Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests. Remove heavily infested leaves or stems.
- Diseases: Avoid overwatering and improve air circulation around the plant to prevent diseases. Use a fungicide to treat infected plants.
Habitat
Passerina Rigida is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. The plant can be found in various habitats, including deserts, prairies, and rocky slopes. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought, heat, and poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Passerina Rigida a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Passerina Rigida is a drought-tolerant plant that is well-suited for xeriscaping and water-wise gardening.
Q: Can Passerina Rigida grow in containers?
A: Yes, Passerina Rigida can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I prune Passerina Rigida?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and promote new growth. You can also pinch back the tips of the stems during the growing season to encourage bushier growth.
Q: How long do the flowers of Passerina Rigida last?
A: The flowers of Passerina Rigida can last for several weeks, from May to October, depending on the weather conditions and the health of the plant.
Related Plants
- Passerina Caerulea (Blue Grosbeak)
- Salvia Farinacea (Mealy Blue Sage)
- Salvia Greggii (Autumn Sage)
- Agastache Rupestris (Sunset Hyssop)
- Penstemon Cobaea (Wild Foxglove)
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PARI
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/sage/stiff-blue-sage-care.htm
- https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/salvia/salvia-rigida
