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Description
Salvia Officinalis Icterina, also known as Golden Sage or Tricolor Sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is a cultivar of the common sage plant, Salvia Officinalis, and is native to the Mediterranean region. The plant grows up to 60 cm in height and has an upright form with woody stems. The leaves are variegated with green, yellow, and white hues, giving it a unique and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Salvia Officinalis Icterina has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other sage plants. The leaves are variegated with green, yellow, and white hues, and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The plant grows up to 60 cm in height and has an upright form with woody stems that are covered in small, pale purple flowers during the summer months. The flowers attract bees and other pollinators to the garden.
Care Guide
Salvia Officinalis Icterina is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. It can be grown in containers or in the ground. Watering should be done regularly, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Fertilization can be done once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Officinalis Icterina is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Salvia Officinalis Icterina is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in rocky, dry areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is often grown in herb gardens or as an ornamental plant in landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salvia Officinalis Icterina be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors, but it prefers full sun exposure.
Q: How often should Salvia Officinalis Icterina be watered?
A: It should be watered regularly, but the soil should not be waterlogged.
Q: How tall does Salvia Officinalis Icterina grow?
A: It can grow up to 60 cm in height.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Salvia Officinalis Icterina?
A: It is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Salvia Officinalis
- Salvia Apiana
- Salvia Divinorum
- Salvia Dorrii
References
- “Salvia Officinalis Icterina.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e865.
- “Salvia Officinalis Icterina.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/sage/golden-sage-care.htm.
- “Salvia Officinalis Icterina.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/78403/Salvia-officinalis-Icterina/Details.
