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Description
Salvia Urticifolia, commonly known as Nettleleaf sage, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall with a spread of 2 feet. Salvia Urticifolia has hairy, green leaves that are triangular or heart-shaped and serrated edges. It produces small, tubular flowers that are purple, blue, or white in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Salvia Urticifolia has a unique appearance that makes it easily recognizable. Its leaves are hairy and green, and they have a triangular or heart-shaped appearance with serrated edges. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, and it produces small, tubular flowers that are purple, blue, or white in color. Its flowers bloom from spring to early summer and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
In order to keep Salvia Urticifolia healthy and thriving, it is important to follow a few basic care guidelines:
- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil, so make sure not to overwater it. Water it deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is particularly hot and dry.
- Fertilization: Salvia Urticifolia doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring to help promote growth.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Salvia Urticifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure to plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Salvia Urticifolia is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salvia Urticifolia is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. Additionally, spider mites and aphids may occasionally attack the plant. If you notice any signs of pests or disease, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Salvia Urticifolia is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, mesas, and canyons. This plant prefers dry, well-drained soil and is often found in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salvia Urticifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salvia Urticifolia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should Salvia Urticifolia be fertilized?
A: Salvia Urticifolia only needs to be fertilized once a year, in the spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune Salvia Urticifolia?
A: Salvia Urticifolia should be pruned in the late fall or early winter, after it has finished blooming for the season.
Q: Does Salvia Urticifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Salvia Urticifolia’s flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Salvia Apiana (White Sage)
- Salvia Greggii (Autumn Sage)
- Salvia Officinalis (Common Sage)
- Salvia Farinacea (Mealy Cup Sage)
References
- “Salvia urticifolia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed May 6, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SAUR.
- “Salvia urticifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 6, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279877.
- “Salvia urticifolia.” Plant Database. Accessed May 6, 2021. https://www.plantdatabase.online/plant/salvia-urticifolia.
