Consulta Plantas

Care of the plant Salvia guaranitica or Hummingbird 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 guaranitica, Salvia greggii, Salvia farinacea, Salvia disermas, Salvia canariensis, Salvia aurea, Salvia apiana, Salvia africana, Salvia scabra, Salvia lanceolata, Salvia leucantha, Salvia namaensis, Salvia microphylla, Salvia mexicana, Salvia splendens, Salvia vaseyi, Salvia leucophylla, Salvia sclarea, Salvia mellifera, Salvia nemorosa, Salvia officinalis, Salvia fruticosa, Salvia elegans.

Common names: Hummingbird sage, Anise-scented sage. This species is native to South America.

They are perennial subshrubs with erect stems that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height; they spread laterally from their roots so they can become invasive. They have rough, oval-shaped leaves with dark green serrated edges that give off an anise smell if crushed. The showy flowers appear in spikes 20 cm (7.87") high and can be of different shades of blue depending on the variety. They bloom from late summer to early winter.

They are used to form borders and bushy groups; they are ideal for low maintenance garden areas. They are also used in pots and planters for balconies, patios and terraces.

Salvia guaranitica grows in full sun or semi-shade exposure. They do not resist frost or continued intense cold.

It's important that the soil is well drained because excess moisture rots the roots; they appreciate that the soil contains organic matter.

Water regularly at the rate of 2 times a week in summer and every 10 days in winter; in spring and autumn water every 5-7 days.

Fertilize in early spring with compost or manure and in early summer with mineral fertilizer.

Prune faded flowers to encourage the appearance of new spikes. They can also be lightly pruned in late winter to keep them compact.

The main enemy of these plants is the excess of irrigation that produces fungal diseases.

They are propagated, in early spring, by division or from seeds.

Images of the plant Salvia guaranitica or Hummingbird sage