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Description
Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet, also known as Red Velvet Sage or Little Leaf Sage, is a perennial shrub native to Mexico and Central America. It belongs to the mint family and is known for its stunning red flowers, which bloom from late spring to early fall. This plant is a popular choice among gardeners due to its attractive appearance and easy-to-care-for nature. Its leaves, which are small and dark green, emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed, making it a popular choice for herb gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————-|————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Angiosperms || Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Lamiales|| Family| Lamiaceae|| Genus| Salvia|| Species| Microphylla |
Appearance
Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet grows up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide. Its leaves are small and oval-shaped, measuring 0.5-1 inch long and 0.25-0.5 inches wide. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly hairy texture.The plant’s flowers are the main attraction, as they bloom in a vibrant shade of red from late spring to early fall. The flowers grow in clusters and are tubular in shape, measuring 1 inch in length. They attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a great addition to any pollinator garden.
Care Guide
Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not soggy. Reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to fall).- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: Plant in full sun for best results. It can tolerate partial shade, but the plant may not produce as many flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil or overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and reduce watering during the winter months.
Habitat
Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in rocky, dry areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: When is the best time to prune Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet?
A: Prune the plant in early spring before new growth appears. This will help promote bushier growth and more flowers.Q: Does Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s red flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.Q: Can Salvia Microphylla Red Velvet be used for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the plant’s leaves have a pleasant fragrance and can be used in cooking, particularly in Mexican and Central American cuisine.
Related Plants
– Salvia leucantha (Mexican Bush Sage)- Salvia guaranitica (Blue Anise Sage)- Salvia elegans (Pineapple Sage)- Salvia farinacea (Mealy Cup Sage)
References
– “Salvia microphylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b619- “Salvia microphylla ‘Red Velvet’.” Plant Lust. https://plantlust.com/plant-finder/salvia-microphylla-red-velvet/- “Salvia microphylla.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/databases/plantanswers/txsa/microphylla.html
