Salvia lavandulifolia

Taxonomy

Salvia lavandulifolia, also known as Spanish sage, is a small woody herbaceous perennial that is native to Spain and southern France. It thrives in rocky soil within Maquis shrubland and is often found growing alongside rosemary, Lavandula lanata, and Genista cinerea. This compact subshrub or woody-based perennial reaches a height and width of about 60cm. It features narrow, lanceolate, whitish-gray evergreen leaves that are less than 50mm long, growing opposite each other on the stem in bunches. When the leaves are rubbed, they release oils that emit a fragrance reminiscent of rosemary. These oils are commonly used for scenting soaps. In late spring and early summer, S. lavandulifolia produces spike-like racemes of pale lavender flowers, around 25mm long. The flowering stems have few flowers, which are spaced apart in whorls. Some varieties of this plant possess a dark calyx. The overall appearance of this Spanish sage is characterized by its reclining habit, grey-green downy leaves, and vibrant violet-blue flowers.

How to care for Salvia lavandulifolia

Difficulty

Caring for Salvia lavandulifolia is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Lighting

Salvia lavandulifolia 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 Salvia lavandulifolia is always in the right place to thrive.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Salvia lavandulifolia to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.

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.

Region of origin

Salvia lavandulifolia’s native range is S.W. Europe - Spain.


More info:
Wikipedia