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Salvia Farinacea

Salvia Farinacea

Description

Salvia Farinacea, commonly known as Mealy Blue Sage, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This plant is native to Texas and Mexico and is widely grown in gardens and landscapes for its beautiful blue flowers. Salvia Farinacea is drought-tolerant and attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Spermatophyta
Class Magnoliopsida
Order Lamiales
Family Lamiaceae
Genus Salvia

Appearance

The leaves of Salvia Farinacea are grey-green, lance-shaped, and have a velvety texture. The flowers are small and tubular, arranged in whorls on long spikes that can grow up to 2 feet tall. The flowers are typically blue, but there are varieties with white, pink, or purple flowers. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.

Care Guide

Salvia Farinacea requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure to grow properly. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth. Salvia Farinacea is hardy in zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Salvia Farinacea is generally pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Salvia Farinacea is native to Texas and Mexico and grows in dry, rocky, and sandy soils. It is commonly found in fields, prairies, and along roadsides. The plant is tolerant of drought and heat and can grow in a variety of soil types.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water Salvia Farinacea?
A: Salvia Farinacea is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.

Q: Is Salvia Farinacea susceptible to diseases?
A: Salvia Farinacea can be affected by root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Salvia Farinacea?
A: Salvia Farinacea is hardy in zones 8-11.

Q: Does Salvia Farinacea attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Salvia Farinacea attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Related Plants

  • Salvia Greggii
  • Salvia Leucantha
  • Salvia Officinalis
  • Salvia Nemorosa

References

  • https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/salvia/mealy-blue-sage-plant.htm
  • https://www.southernliving.com/plants/salvia-farinacea
  • https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/salvia-farinacea.html
  • https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/flowers-and-plants/herbs/how-to-grow-salvia-farinacea

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