Contents
Description
Salvia Mexicana, also known as Mexican sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. This plant is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in wetlands and along streams. Salvia Mexicana can grow up to 2 meters tall, and its stem is square-shaped with leaves that are opposite and lance-shaped. The flowers are blue or purple and grow in spikes that can reach up to 30 cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Salvia Mexicana has a striking appearance, with its long spikes of blue or purple flowers that bloom from summer to fall. The leaves are a deep green color and can be up to 10 cm long. This plant can grow up to 2 meters tall, making it an excellent choice for the back of a garden border. Salvia Mexicana is a perfect addition to a cottage garden or mixed border, and it can be used for cut flowers or dried arrangements.
Care Guide
Salvia Mexicana is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips for this plant:- Water: Salvia Mexicana prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Salvia Mexicana grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not flower as profusely.- Hardiness Zones: Salvia Mexicana is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Mexicana is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Salvia Mexicana is native to wetlands and along streams in Mexico and Central America. It grows in moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. This plant is an excellent choice for a water-wise garden or a meadow garden, and it attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salvia Mexicana deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Mexicana is deer-resistant.Q: Can Salvia Mexicana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Mexicana can be grown in containers, but it will need to be watered more frequently.Q: How often should I fertilize Salvia Mexicana?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.Q: Can Salvia Mexicana be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Salvia Mexicana can be propagated by cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Salvia guaranitica (Anise-scented sage)- Salvia leucantha (Mexican bush sage)- Salvia elegans (Pineapple sage)- Salvia nemorosa (Woodland sage)
References
– “Salvia Mexicana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l870.- “Salvia Mexicana.” Gardenia. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/salvia-mexicana.
