Care of the shrub Salvia namaensis or Nama sage |
|
The genus Salvia, family Lamiaceae, comprises 1,000 species of shrubs and herbaceous plants native to Asia, Africa, the Mediterranean region, and Central and South America. Some species are: Salvia namaensis, Salvia microphylla, Salvia mexicana, Salvia mellifera, Salvia leucantha, Salvia lanceolata, Salvia guaranitica, Salvia greggii, Salvia farinacea, Salvia disermas, Salvia canariensis, Salvia aurea, Salvia apiana, Salvia africana, Salvia scabra, Salvia splendens, Salvia vaseyi, Salvia leucophylla, Salvia sclarea, Salvia nemorosa, Salvia officinalis, Salvia fruticosa, Salvia elegans. Common name: Nama sage. This species is native to Namibia and South Africa. They are fast-growing and highly branched evergreen semi-woody shrubs that reach 1 meter (3.28 feet) in height. The leaves are aromatic, lobed and lime green in color. The flowers appear in whorls and are white or light blue. They bloom in spring and summer. They are used in rockery, on sunny slopes, in dry areas of the garden in groups and in pots. They combine well with plants of the Aloe, Osteospermum, Erica and Protea genera. Salvia namaensis prefers full sun exposure and warm climates such as the Mediterranean or subtropical. They do not resist cold below 5 ºC (41 ºF). They can be grown in sandy and rocky soils but prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Planting is done in late spring. They are plants resistant to drought; They appreciate regular watering in summer, always waiting for the soil to completely dry out. Fertilize with compost and mineral fertilizer in spring to improve flowering. Prune heavily every 2-3 years because they tend to grow out of order. They are plants resistant to pests and diseases but sensitive to excess humidity. They are propagated from seeds sown in early summer or late spring; germinate quickly. They can also reproduce by cuttings but it's a slower process. |
Images of the shrub Salvia namaensis or Nama sage |
 Salvia namaensis |