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Description
Salvia Lasiocephala, also known as the Mexican Sage, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Mexico and can grow up to 3 to 5 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet wide. The plant blooms from summer to fall and produces beautiful pink flowers that attract bees and butterflies. The leaves of the plant are green and slightly hairy with a strong scent.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
The Mexican Sage has a bushy appearance with upright stems that are slightly woody at the base. The leaves of the plant are green and slightly hairy with a strong scent. The plant blooms from summer to fall and produces beautiful pink flowers that are about 1 inch long and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers attract bees and butterflies and add a beautiful pop of color to any garden.
Care Guide
Salvia Lasiocephala is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of your Mexican Sage:
- Water: The Mexican Sage prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought. Water the plant deeply once a week during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The Mexican Sage prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. Amend the soil with compost or sand if necessary.
- Sunlight: The Mexican Sage prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure the plant gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Salvia Lasiocephala is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mexican Sage is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common pests and diseases that you should watch out for:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to get rid of them.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and water the plant deeply once a week.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to treat it.
Habitat
Salvia Lasiocephala is native to Mexico and can be found growing in dry and rocky areas, as well as on hillsides and in canyons. The plant is well-adapted to hot and dry weather and can tolerate drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Mexican Sage in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Mexican Sage in a container as long as it has good drainage and is at least 12 inches wide and 12 inches deep.
Q: How often should I prune my Mexican Sage?
A: You can prune your Mexican Sage in late winter or early spring to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can I propagate Mexican Sage?
A: Yes, you can propagate Mexican Sage by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall and rooting them in moist soil or water.
Q: Is Mexican Sage deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Mexican Sage is deer-resistant due to its strong scent and bitter taste.
Related Plants
- Salvia Leucantha
- Salvia Mellifera
- Salvia Dorrii
- Salvia Officinalis
References
- “Salvia Lasiocephala.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c367.
- “Salvia Lasiocephala.” San Marcos Growers, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3814.
- “Mexican Sage (Salvia Lasiocephala).” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1164/.
