Woodland Sage Salvia nemorosa Marcus = 'Haeumanarc' (PBR)
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Meadow Sage 'Marcus' or 'Haeumanarc' is a compact perennial featuring dense, well-formed clusters, often referred to as inflorescences, composed of violet-blue flowers. These blooms appear stacked one above the other, creating a visually striking column of color during its flowering period. The foliage of the Meadow Sage 'Marcus' is equally attractive; it consists of oblong leaves that are typically grayish-green. The texture of these leaves is somewhat rough to the touch, and they have a slightly wrinkled appearance that adds to the plant's charm. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern at the base, maintaining their color and form throughout the growing season. The overall presentation of the Meadow Sage 'Marcus' is a harmonious blend of these charming flowers and foliage, making it a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers seeking a plant with visual interest and appeal.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Lamiaceae.
Synonyms
Marcus Meadow Sage, Marcus Sage, Marcus Woodland Sage.
Common names
Salvia nemorosa 'Haeumanarc'
- Toxicity
To humans
Salvia nemorosa, commonly known as Woodland Sage, is not generally considered toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that ingestion of Woodland Sage poses significant health risks to humans, and it does not typically produce toxic symptoms upon ingestion.
To pets
Woodland Sage is not known to be toxic to pets either. It is generally considered safe around cats and dogs, and there are no commonly reported symptoms of poisoning from ingestion of this plant by pets. As with any non-food plant, ingestion in large amounts could potentially cause mild stomach upset, but toxicity is not a significant concern with Woodland Sage.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attracts Pollinators: Salvia nemorosa Marcus is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that assist in the pollination of surrounding plants.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, this variety of salvia can tolerate periods of dry weather, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care once planted, making it an ideal choice for gardeners looking for plants that do not demand a lot of time or resources.
- Cold Hardy: This plant is hardy in colder climates, which allows it to survive and thrive in a range of temperate conditions.
- Long Blooming Period: Salvia nemorosa Marcus has a prolonged blooming season, providing color and interest in the garden from late spring to early fall.
- Deer Resistant: It is generally resistant to browsing by deer, making it an excellent choice for gardens in areas where deer are a common problem.
- Easy to Propagate: It can be easily propagated by division, cuttings, or seeds, which allows gardeners to produce more plants economically.
- Versatile Landscaping Plant: The plant's compact size and attractive flowers make it suitable for a variety of landscaping uses, including borders, containers, and rock gardens.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Artistic Inspiration: Artists and photographers may use the beautiful purple spires of the Salvia nemorosa as subjects or backdrops in their compositions to add vibrant color and texture.
- Educational Resource: Horticulture students can study Salvia nemorosa's growth habits, maintenance needs, and blooming patterns as part of a curriculum on perennial plants.
- Habitat Enrichment: Planting Salvia nemorosa in butterfly gardens can provide nectar for pollinators, like bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- Culinary Garnish: While not known for its flavor, the flowers can serve as an ornamental edible garnish for salads and desserts, adding a splash of color to the presentation.
- Natural Dye Source: The blooms of Salvia nemorosa can be used to produce natural dyes for fabric or paper, contributing to sustainable art practices.
- Crafting Material: Dried flowers and stems can be incorporated into craft projects, such as wreaths, dried flower arrangements, or potpourri.
- Photography Aid: The plant can serve as a tool for photography workshops, teaching students about macro photography and depth-of-field using the blooms as subjects.
- Erosion Control: The dense, spreading nature of Salvia nemorosa makes it suitable for planting on slopes or areas prone to erosion, to help stabilize soil.
- Marker Plant: It can be used as an indicator species in gardens to mark the seasonal progression of bloom times, assisting gardeners with timing for maintenance activities.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Dried petals of the plants can be used as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations, reducing environmental impact.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Wood Sage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Wood Sage is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Healing: Salvia is associated with healing due to its medicinal properties and common use in herbal remedies.
- Wisdom: The genus name "Salvia" is derived from the Latin "salvere," meaning to save or heal, which has been extended metaphorically to mean wisdom.
- Longevity: Salvia plants are known for their longevity and thus symbolize a long life or immortality.
- Protection: Because salvias have been used in various cultures for protection from evil, they carry the symbolism of safety and sanctuary.
- Purification: The strong scent of some Salvia species is believed to have cleansing properties that symbolize purification and the warding off of negative energies.
- Water
The Woodland Sage should be watered deeply but infrequently, as it prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some drought. Aim to water the plant once a week with about 1 gallon of water, adjusting frequency depending on rainfall and soil moisture. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water twice a week, while in cooler, wetter conditions, you can reduce watering. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy, and always check that the top inch of soil is dry before watering again.
- Light
For optimal growth, the Woodland Sage requires full sun, meaning it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant will thrive in a spot that is exposed to unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, although it can tolerate a bit of light shade, especially in regions with intense afternoon sun.
- Temperature
The Woodland Sage is hardy and can survive in a temperature range from about -30 degrees Fahrenheit to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, though it prefers to grow in conditions between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below the freezing point for extended periods.
- Pruning
Pruning the Woodland Sage is important for maintaining plant health and encouraging vigorous growth. Trim back the plant after the first bloom to promote a second flowering period. Pruning is best done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged stems as needed to maintain a neat appearance.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
The best soil mix for the Woodland Sage should be well-draining and loamy with a pH close to neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0. Incorporating organic matter such as compost or peat moss can enhance the soil's structure and fertility, ensuring healthy growth.
- Repotting
Woodland Sage does not typically require frequent repotting as it is a perennial plant that prefers to be undisturbed. Repotting every 3-4 years or when the plant outgrows its container is sufficient to maintain its health.
- Humidity & Misting
Woodland Sage thrives in average garden conditions and does not require high humidity. It is adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels prevalent in outdoor environments without any special requirements.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and occasional watering for indoor growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, water moderately, and protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
- Life cycle
The life of Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus', commonly known as Meadow Sage 'Marcus', begins with seed germination, typically occurring in late winter to early spring if sown outdoors. Following germination, the seedlings develop into juvenile plants with characteristic foliage; the rosette of leaves grows closer to the ground before the plant enters the vegetative growth phase, where stems elongate and foliage matures. During late spring to early summer, the plant transitions into the flowering stage, producing dense, violet-blue flower spikes that attract bees and butterflies. After pollination, seed development occurs, and once the seeds are mature, they disperse to propagate the next generation. Post-flowering, if not deadheaded, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, especially in regions with hot, dry summers or cold winters. Yearly, the plant may exhibit a perennial growth cycle, regenerating from the rootstock or base of the plant each spring, continuing this cycle for several years.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus' is by division, ideally performed in the spring or early fall. This involves gently separating the plant's root ball into smaller sections, each with an adequate number of roots and shoots. The divisions should be replanted at the same depth they were growing at originally, spaced about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart to allow for mature growth. After replanting, it is important to water the new divisions thoroughly to help establish them. This straightforward method of propagation ensures that the new plants are true to the parent, maintaining the specific characteristics of the 'Marcus' cultivar.