Salvia columbariae aka Chia

Salvia columbariae is called chia or Californian chia-plant. It belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Its native range covers the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. This includes California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. In Mexico, sources list Baja California, Sonora, and Sinaloa. It grows in dry, open sites in a subtropical climate. Wild plants occur below about 3,940 feet [1,200 metres].

This upright herb reaches about 2.3 feet [0.7 metres] tall. Its spread can reach about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Kew lists the species as an annual. Other sources describe it as annual to perennial. Plants resist lodging, so their stems tend to stay upright. PFAF gives July to September as the flowering season. Its seeds ripen from August to September. Each flower has both male and female organs. Bees pollinate the flowers, and the plant attracts wildlife.

Grow chia in full sun with very free drainage. It needs light, sandy soil and prefers rich ground. PFAF also lists loam as suitable. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. The plant can grow in dry or moist ground. It also tolerates drought, but cannot grow in shade. PFAF lists USDA zones 6–9 and reports frost tolerance. It suits planted beds where its flowers can draw bees.

Seed is the stated means of raising new plants. PFAF suggests sowing outdoors in April. Seeds can also start under glass in March or April. At 68°F, germination takes about 10 to 14 days. The plant dislikes having its roots disturbed. Move seedlings into their own pots while still small. PFAF gives May as the time to plant them outside. These dates reflect that source's growing schedule rather than every climate.

People gather wild seed and grow chia as a food crop. The seeds can be eaten uncooked or after cooking. Their nut-like taste suits ground meal, bread, and cakes. Cooks also blend them with cornmeal or wheat. Sprouted seeds can go into salads and sandwiches. Soaking seeds in cold water makes a drink. Sources describe the seeds as supplying protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Traditional uses include seed preparations for fever and infections. These are recorded uses, not proof that treatment works. PFAF and Useful Tropical Plants report no known hazards. That does not establish safety for every use or animal.