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Description
Salvia Leucophylla, commonly known as Purple Sage or Gray Sage, is a perennial evergreen shrub that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to California and can grow up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The plant emits a strong, pleasant fragrance and produces beautiful flowers that range in color from pink to lavender.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
| Species | Leucophylla |
Appearance
Salvia Leucophylla has narrow, grey-green leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a fuzzy appearance. The leaves are around 2-3 inches long and have a slightly bitter taste. The plant produces long, slender stems that are covered in small, fragrant flowers. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The flowers range in color from pink to lavender and have a tubular shape.
Care Guide
Salvia Leucophylla is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: Salvia Leucophylla needs full sun to thrive and should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Leucophylla is relatively pest-resistant but can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant is planted in well-draining soil and is not over-watered. Insects such as aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Salvia Leucophylla is native to California and can be found in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodland habitats. It thrives in areas with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Salvia Leucophylla?
A: Salvia Leucophylla should be fertilized twice a year, once in the spring and once in mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Salvia Leucophylla?
A: The easiest way to propagate Salvia Leucophylla is through stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Q: How often should I water Salvia Leucophylla?
A: Salvia Leucophylla should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the winter months.
Q: Is Salvia Leucophylla deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Leucophylla is deer-resistant due to its strong scent and bitter taste.
Related Plants
– Salvia Apiana (White Sage)- Salvia Mellifera (Black Sage)- Salvia Clevlandii (Cleveland Sage)- Salvia Greggii (Autumn Sage)
References
– “Salvia leucophylla.” Native Plant Database. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, n.d. Web. 24 Aug. 2021.- “Salvia leucophylla.” Sunset Western Garden Book, 9th ed. N.p.: Sunset, 2012. Print.- “Salvia leucophylla.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 24 Aug. 2021.
