Salvia Sessei

Description

Salvia Sessei, also known as Sesse’s sage, is an evergreen perennial herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Mexico and is named after the Spanish botanist, Jose Mariano de la Serna Sesse. Salvia Sessei is a popular garden plant, known for its attractive foliage and stunning flowers. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide and blooms in late summer and early fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Salvia Sessei has elongated, lance-shaped, gray-green leaves that are around 2.5 inches long. The leaves are covered with fine hairs, which give them a fuzzy texture. The plant produces large, tubular, bright red flowers, which are around 1 inch long and grow in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers are a magnet for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, and add a splash of color to any garden.

Care Guide

Water

Salvia Sessei prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.

Fertilization

Fertilize Salvia Sessei once a month during the growing season with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

Soil

Salvia Sessei prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to improve drainage.

Sunlight

Salvia Sessei prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide the plant with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones

Salvia Sessei is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Salvia Sessei is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Watch out for spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.

Habitat

Salvia Sessei is native to Mexico and is found growing in rocky or gravelly soil in open, sunny areas. It is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Salvia Sessei be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Salvia Sessei can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and place the container in a sunny location.

Q: How often should I prune Salvia Sessei?

A: Prune Salvia Sessei in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged stems and cut back the remaining stems by one-third to encourage bushy growth.

Q: When is the best time to plant Salvia Sessei?

A: Plant Salvia Sessei in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Water the plant regularly until it becomes established.

Q: Can Salvia Sessei tolerate dry conditions?

A: Salvia Sessei prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established. Water the plant deeply during periods of drought.

Related Plants

• Salvia patens
• Salvia coccinea
• Salvia elegans
• Salvia leucantha

References

• “Salvia Sessei.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279615&isprofile=0&.
• “Salvia Sessei.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/122578/.
• “Salvia Sessei.” San Marcos Growers, www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=4088.