Contents
Description
Salvia Lasiantha, commonly known as San Luis purple sage, is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. This plant is native to California and can be found growing naturally in the foothills and canyons of the central coast ranges. Salvia Lasiantha is known for producing vibrant purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making this plant a great addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
The Salvia Lasiantha plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The leaves are a light green color and have an oval shape. The flowers are tubular and grow in clusters at the end of each stem. Each flower is about 1 inch long and has a vibrant purple color. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and can produce flowers for up to 2 months.
Care Guide
Salvia Lasiantha is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive.
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and only needs to be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Salvia Lasiantha does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: Salvia Lasiantha prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Lasiantha is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can still be affected by some common issues.
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause it to wilt. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to the death of the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining, and only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Habitat
Salvia Lasiantha is native to California and can be found growing naturally in the foothills and canyons of the central coast ranges. This plant prefers dry, rocky, and sandy soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Salvia Lasiantha plant?
A: Water your Salvia Lasiantha plant when the soil is dry to the touch. This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to sit in water.
Q: Can Salvia Lasiantha be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Salvia Lasiantha can be grown in pots as long as the soil is well-draining, and the plant is not overwatered.
Q: Does Salvia Lasiantha attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Salvia Lasiantha is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its vibrant purple flowers.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Salvia Lasiantha plant?
A: Salvia Lasiantha does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring.
Related Plants
- Salvia Apiana (White Sage)
- Salvia Leucophylla (Purple Sage)
- Salvia Mellifera (Black Sage)
- Salvia Microphylla (Baby Sage)
References
- “Salvia Lasiantha.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 6 Apr. 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/1066–salvia-lasiantha
- “Salvia Lasiantha.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed 6 Apr. 2021. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1378
- “Salvia Lasiantha.” UC Master Gardener Program of San Luis Obispo County. Accessed 6 Apr. 2021. https://ucanr.edu/sites/mgslo/files/289010.pdf
