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Description
Salvia Languidula, commonly known as the mountain sage or languid sage, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial native to Mexico. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant has an upright growth habit and produces numerous purple-blue flowers in summer and autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
The leaves of Salvia Languidula are a soft green color and are covered in fine hairs. They are long and narrow, measuring up to 4 inches in length. The flowers are arranged in whorls along the stems and are about 1 inch long. They have a distinctive purple-blue color and bloom from summer to autumn. The plant’s stems are square-shaped and have a slightly woody texture.
Care Guide
Salvia Languidula is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. It grows best in well-draining soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F. To keep the plant healthy, it is recommended to fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Languidula is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites and aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Salvia Languidula is native to the mountains of central and northern Mexico. It is commonly found growing in rocky or gravelly soil, in areas with full sun exposure. The plant is well adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salvia Languidula be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Languidula 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 water Salvia Languidula?
A: Salvia Languidula should be watered regularly during the growing season, about once a week. However, it is important to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering.
Q: Does Salvia Languidula attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Salvia Languidula is a great attractor of pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How can I propagate Salvia Languidula?
A: Salvia Languidula can be easily propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer. The cuttings can be rooted in water or planted directly in soil.
Related Plants
- Salvia elegans
- Salvia officinalis
- Salvia guaranitica
- Salvia microphylla
References
- “Salvia Languidula.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b617.
- “Salvia Languidula.” Plant of the Month. Accessed June 18, 2021. https://www.plantofthemonth.co.uk/salvia-languidula/.
- “Salvia Languidula.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 18, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/58757/i-Salvia-languidula-i/Details.
