Contents
Description
Salvia Azurea, commonly known as Blue Sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the United States and can be found in the central and southern regions of the country. The plant is known for its vibrant blue flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
| Species | Salvia azurea |
Appearance
Salvia Azurea has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and wide. The leaves are lance-shaped, gray-green in color, and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are tubular in shape and grow in whorls on spikes that can reach up to 1 foot in length. The flowers are a beautiful shade of blue and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden.
Care Guide
Salvia Azurea is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Salvia Azurea is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Azurea is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if the plant is grown in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Salvia Azurea is native to the central and southern regions of the United States. It can be found growing in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salvia Azurea grow in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Azurea can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.
Q: How often should I prune Salvia Azurea?
A: Prune Salvia Azurea in the spring to encourage new growth and again in the fall after the plant has finished blooming. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back the plant by about one-third.
Q: Can Salvia Azurea be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Salvia Azurea can be propagated from cuttings. Take 4-5 inch stem cuttings in the spring or early summer and root them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and out of direct sunlight until they have rooted.
Q: Is Salvia Azurea deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Azurea is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Salvia nemorosa
- Salvia officinalis
- Salvia splendens
- Salvia guaranitica
- Salvia coccinea
References
- “Salvia azurea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280042&isprofile=0&basic=salvia%20azurea.
- “Salvia Azurea.” University of Illinois Extension. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://extension.illinois.edu/hortanswers/plantdetail.cfm?PlantID=718&PlantTypeID=8.
- “Salvia Azurea.” Gardening Know How. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/salvia/growing-salvia-azurea-blue-sage.htm.
