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Description
Salvia Lavanduloides, also known as Mexican Sage or Lavender Sage, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America and is widely cultivated in gardens for its attractive foliage and flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a long, branching stem and gray-green leaves that are hairy and aromatic. The flowers, which bloom from early summer to fall, are tubular and lavender-pink in color, arranged in whorls on the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Salvia Lavanduloides has a distinctive appearance that makes it a popular choice for landscaping. The plant has a bushy habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are gray-green in color, with a velvety texture and a strong, pleasant scent when crushed. The flowers are arranged in whorls along the stem, with each whorl containing several tubular blooms that are about an inch long. The flowers are lavender-pink in color and attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
Salvia Lavanduloides is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:Water: Salvia Lavanduloides prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.Fertilization: Salvia Lavanduloides does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth.Soil: Salvia Lavanduloides prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend heavy clay soils with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.Sunlight: Salvia Lavanduloides prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant in a sunny location with well-drained soil for best results.Hardiness Zones: Salvia Lavanduloides is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In colder climates, the plant should be grown as an annual or brought indoors for the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Lavanduloides is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, like all plants, it can be susceptible to some problems. Here are a few common issues to watch out for:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can occasionally infest Salvia Lavanduloides. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.Diseases: Salvia Lavanduloides can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. Avoid overwatering and amend heavy soils with organic matter to prevent this problem.
Habitat
Salvia Lavanduloides is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in rocky, well-drained soils in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant is well-suited to hot, dry climates and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some drought but should be watered regularly during the growing season.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salvia Lavanduloides deer-resistant?A: Yes, Salvia Lavanduloides is deer-resistant due to its strong scent and rough texture.Q: How often should I prune Salvia Lavanduloides?A: Prune Salvia Lavanduloides in the early spring to promote bushier growth and remove dead or damaged branches.Q: Can I grow Salvia Lavanduloides in a container?A: Yes, Salvia Lavanduloides can be grown in a container as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.Q: How do I propagate Salvia Lavanduloides?A: Salvia Lavanduloides can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in well-drained soil.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Salvia genus:
- Salvia Officinalis (Common Sage)
- Salvia Nemorosa (Woodland Sage)
- Salvia Divinorum (Diviner’s Sage)
- Salvia Apiana (White Sage)
References
- “Salvia Lavanduloides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b389
- “Salvia Lavanduloides.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/databases/interiorscape/Salvia_lavanduloides.html
- “Salvia Lavanduloides.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/2225/
