Contents
Description
Salvia Texana, also known as Texas sage or blue sage, is a perennial herb native to Texas and Mexico. It belongs to the mint family and is a popular ornamental plant among gardeners due to its beautiful blue-purple flowers and drought-tolerant nature. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a woody stem and gray-green leaves that are highly aromatic.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
The plant has a bushy appearance and produces numerous small, blue-purple flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. They are grayish-green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The stems of the plant are square-shaped and woody, which helps the plant to retain moisture during drought conditions. Overall, the plant has a pleasant, aromatic fragrance.
Care Guide
Water: Salvia Texana is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH (6.0-7.5). Amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Salvia Texana requires full sun exposure (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) to grow and bloom properly.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F and is suitable for hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Texana is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common pests that may infest the plant include spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Salvia Texana is native to Texas and Mexico and is commonly found growing in dry, rocky areas, prairies, and along roadsides. The plant is adapted to hot and dry climates and has a deep root system that allows it to access moisture from deep in the soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salvia Texana deer resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Texana is generally deer resistant due to its strong fragrance and bitter taste.
Q: Can Salvia Texana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Texana can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should Salvia Texana be pruned?
A: Prune the plant in the spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged stems. You may also prune the plant after it has finished blooming to encourage a second bloom later in the season.
Q: How long do Salvia Texana flowers last?
A: Salvia Texana flowers typically last for several weeks to a month. Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Related Plants
- Salvia coccinea
- Salvia leucantha
- Salvia nemorosa
- Salvia officinalis
- Salvia splendens
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SATE5
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/salvia/growing-salvia-texas-sage.htm
- https://www.southernliving.com/garden/grumpy-gardener/texas-sage
