Salvia Nutans
Contents
Description
Salvia Nutans, commonly known as Nodding Sage, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Central Asia and western China, but has now been introduced to other parts of the world. Salvia Nutans is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It grows up to 60cm tall and produces blue or violet-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
| Species | Salvia Nutans |
Appearance
Salvia Nutans has a bushy growth habit and produces numerous stems from the base. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a rough texture. The flowers are tubular and grow in whorls around the stem. They are blue or violet-blue in color and have a white lower lip. The inflorescence of Salvia Nutans is drooping, which gives rise to its common name, Nodding Sage. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early autumn and attracts bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water
Salvia Nutans requires moderate watering. It should not be allowed to dry out completely, but it should not be overwatered either. Watering should be done when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Salvia Nutans is a light feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year in the spring.
Soil
Salvia Nutans prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for the plant.
Sunlight
Salvia Nutans requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Salvia Nutans can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Nutans is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. Powdery mildew can also be a problem, especially in humid conditions.
Habitat
Salvia Nutans is native to Central Asia and western China. It grows in rocky areas, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salvia Nutans deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Nutans is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Salvia Nutans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Nutans can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Salvia Nutans be pruned?
A: Salvia Nutans should be pruned after flowering to promote bushy growth.
Q: Can Salvia Nutans tolerate drought?
A: Salvia Nutans can tolerate some drought, but it should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Related Plants
- Salvia nemorosa
- Salvia verticillata
- Salvia guaranitica
- Salvia sclarea
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Salvia Nutans. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c642
- RHS. (n.d.). Salvia Nutans. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/266278/Salvia-nutans/Details
- The Spruce. (2021). How to Grow Salvia. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-salvia-1403433
