Salvia discolor aka Andean Sage

Taxonomy

Salvia discolor, also known as Andean sage, is a herbaceous perennial flowering plant that is extremely rare both in its native habitat of Peru and in horticulture. This plant has wiry white stems that grow from its base, climbing without the use of tendrils. The leaves of various sizes are a mistletoe-green color and grow in pairs about 1-2 inches apart on the stem, with white hairs covering their undersides. Notably, the leaves, stem, and flower buds emit a strong and distinct odor of blackcurrant. The plant produces deeply saturated dark purple flowers that are about 1 inch long, held in a pistachio-green calyx on inflorescences that can reach 1 foot or longer. The stems of the inflorescences are shiny and covered in glands, often trapping insects. Andean sage blooms during hot spells throughout the summer and autumn and is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant on the French and Italian Rivieras, where it can grow up to 3 feet in height and width. This erect perennial plant reaches a height of up to 45cm and has ovate green leaves with a white-hairy underside. Its deep indigo-blue flowers, measuring 2.5cm in length, stand out against contrasting white-downy calyces. As a houseplant, Andean sage is considered super rare and requires regular watering to thrive. It thrives best in long-lasting, direct light and should be positioned within 1 foot from a window. Well-draining soil is preferred for this plant. Repotting is recommended each time the plant doubles in size, eliminating the need for additional fertilizers.

Common names

Andean Sage

How to care for Andean Sage

Water

Andean Sage should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Andean Sage loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Andean Sage requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Andean Sage is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Humidity

The Andean Sage does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

Fertilizer

The Andean Sage should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Andean Sage’s native range is Worldwide.


More info:
Wikipedia