Salvia Umbratica
Contents
Description
Salvia Umbratica, commonly known as the Mountain Shade Sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to Central America and can be found in countries such as Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. The plant has a woody base and grows up to 1.5 meters in height, producing attractive blue-violet flowers that bloom during the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
| Species | Umbratica |
Appearance
Salvia Umbratica is a striking plant that boasts bright green leaves that are ovate and arranged oppositely on the stem. The leaves have a rough texture and can grow up to 10 cm long. The plant produces tall stems that are covered in small, purple flowers that bloom during the summer months. The flowers are arranged in whorls and can be up to 2.5 cm long.
Care Guide
Salvia Umbratica is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and a well-draining soil. It prefers to grow in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Salvia Umbratica is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Umbratica is generally 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 solution. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Salvia Umbratica is native to Central America and can be found growing in the mountains of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. The plant prefers to grow in well-draining soil in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salvia Umbratica deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Salvia Umbratica is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Salvia Umbratica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Umbratica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Salvia Umbratica be watered?
A: Salvia Umbratica should be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: How can I propagate Salvia Umbratica?
A: Salvia Umbratica can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or division.
Related Plants
- Salvia coccinea
- Salvia elegans
- Salvia splendens
- Salvia leucantha
References
- “Salvia umbratica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b594.
- “Salvia umbratica.” Plant Delights Nursery, www.plantdelights.com/products/salvia-umbratica.
- “Salvia umbratica.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/salvia-umbratica-growing-profile-5071181.
