Salvia Leucantha

Description

Salvia Leucantha, also known as Mexican bush sage or velvet sage, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America but is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. This plant is highly valued for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Salvia Leucantha is a fast-growing plant that can reach a height of 3-4 feet and spread up to 5 feet. It has a bushy growth habit with upright stems that are covered with soft, velvety leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped, gray-green, and have a slightly rough texture. The plant produces long spikes of flowers that are densely packed with tubular flowers that are usually purple, but can also be white, pink, or lavender. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Care Guide

Salvia Leucantha is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips to help you grow a healthy and beautiful plant:

• Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in fall and winter.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant Salvia Leucantha in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: Salvia Leucantha is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Salvia Leucantha is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Root rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. Remove infected plants and improve soil drainage to prevent it.

Habitat

Salvia Leucantha is native to the high-altitude regions of Mexico and Central America, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil. It prefers warm temperatures and dry conditions, but can tolerate some moisture. In cultivation, it is often used in borders, rock gardens, and containers, and can also be grown as a hedge or screen.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Salvia Leucantha deer resistant?

A: Yes, Salvia Leucantha is deer resistant.

Q: How often should I prune my Salvia Leucantha?

A: Prune your Salvia Leucantha in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut back the stems by one-third to encourage bushy growth and more flowers.

Q: Can Salvia Leucantha be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Salvia Leucantha can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.

Q: What are the medicinal properties of Salvia Leucantha?

A: Salvia Leucantha is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headache, stomachache, and respiratory infections. It contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Related Plants

• Salvia officinalis (common sage)
• Salvia nemorosa (woodland sage)
• Salvia splendens (scarlet sage)
• Salvia elegans (pineapple sage)

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Salvia leucantha. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287085
• Rodriguez-Fragoso, L., Reyes-Esparza, J., Burchiel, S. W., & Herrera-Ruiz, D. (2008). Risks and benefits of commonly used herbal medicines in Mexico. Toxicology and applied pharmacology, 227(1), 125-135.
• University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Mexican bush sage. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/gardenweb/Herbaceous_Plants/Salvia_leucantha/