Salvia Procurrens

Description

Salvia Procurrens, also known as creeping sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. This plant is native to Mexico and Central America, but it has also been naturalized in parts of the United States, including Texas and Florida. Salvia Procurrens is a low-growing plant that grows up to 12 inches tall and can spread up to 4 feet wide. It is a popular ground cover due to its attractive foliage and vibrant blue flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Salvia Procurrens has green leaves that are triangular in shape and have a slightly fuzzy texture. The leaves are 1-2 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The plant’s stems are square and hairy, and they can produce roots where they come into contact with the soil, allowing the plant to spread quickly. The flowers of Salvia Procurrens are a striking blue color and bloom in clusters on tall spikes that rise above the foliage. Each flower is about 0.5 inches long and has a tubular shape with two lips.

Care Guide

Salvia Procurrens is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Salvia Procurrens prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Salvia Procurrens does not require a lot of fertilizer. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Salvia Procurrens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Salvia Procurrens prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Salvia Procurrens is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Salvia Procurrens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can cause white, powdery spots to appear on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, treat the plant with a fungicide. Salvia Procurrens can also be attractive to slugs and snails, which can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking.

Habitat

Salvia Procurrens is native to Mexico and Central America, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and forests. In the United States, it has been naturalized in parts of Texas and Florida, where it can be found growing in gardens, parks, and along roadsides.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Salvia Procurrens toxic to pets?

A: Salvia Procurrens is not known to be toxic to pets.

Q: Can Salvia Procurrens be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Salvia Procurrens can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.

Q: How often should Salvia Procurrens be pruned?

A: Salvia Procurrens does not require regular pruning, but you can trim it back if it becomes too leggy or to remove any dead or damaged growth.

Q: Does Salvia Procurrens attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Salvia Procurrens is a popular plant for pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

– Salvia Officinalis (Common Sage)- Salvia Divinorum (Diviner’s Sage)- Salvia Farinacea (Mealy Cup Sage)- Salvia Nemorosa (Woodland Sage)- Salvia Splendens (Scarlet Sage)

References

– “Salvia Procurrens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 16 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a684– “Creeping Sage.” Texas SmartScape. Accessed 16 June 2021. https://txsmartscape.com/plant-database/salvia-procurrens/– “Salvia Procurrens.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 16 June 2021. https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/salvia-procurrens.html