Blue Ecuadorian Sage Salvia atrocyanea

Names

• Family

  Lamiaceae

• Synonyms

  Blue Bolivian Sage, Bolivian Blue Sage

• Common names

  Salvia atrocyanea.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Salvia atrocyanea, commonly known as Salvia, does not have a well-documented profile of toxicity to humans. However, as with many plants, it is possible that some individuals may experience adverse reactions or allergies when handling or ingesting Salvia atrocyanea. If these plants are considered toxic, symptoms of poisoning can range from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to more severe reactions depending on the amount ingested and the individual's sensitivity. It is always advisable to err on the side of caution and avoid the ingestion of plants that are not known to be safe or are not traditionally used as food.

• To pets

  Salvia atrocyanea, commonly known as Salvia, is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to pets. Nonetheless, the risk of toxicity to pets can vary, and some may experience mild to severe symptoms after ingesting plants, even those not typically classified as poisonous. If Salvia atrocyanea were poisonous, symptoms in pets might include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, or more severe signs like tremors or difficulty breathing, depending on the amount consumed and the susceptibility of the pet. If you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially toxic plant, it is best to consult a veterinarian immediately.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Blue

• Height

  4 feet (1.2 meters)

• Spread

  3 feet (0.9 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  Bolivia

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: Salvia atrocyanea, commonly known as Blue Salvia, adds aesthetic appeal to gardens with its striking blue flowers.
• Attracts Pollinators: The plant is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
• Drought Tolerance: Blue Salvia is relatively drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and for gardeners in areas with water restrictions.
• Low Maintenance: It typically requires minimal care, thriving in well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
• Deer Resistance: Salvia atrocyanea is often resistant to deer, which is beneficial for gardeners in areas where deer predation is a problem.
• Long Blooming Period: Blue Salvia has a long flowering season, providing color and visual interest in a garden for an extended period.

Medical Properties

• Salvia atrocyanea is not widely recognized for its medicinal uses. Its medical properties, if any, are not well-documented in scientific literature as of my current knowledge.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Salvia atrocyanea, also known as the Blue-flowered Sage, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of blue and purple hues depending on the mordant used.
• The intense color of the Blue-flowered Sage's blossoms makes it a popular choice for natural ink preparations for artists seeking eco-friendly materials.
• In some traditional practices, the fragrant leaves of the Blue-flowered Sage have been used to infuse oils for aromatic purposes in homemade perfumes and scented candles.
• The plant's striking cobalt blue flowers make it an excellent choice for ornamental dried flower arrangements that maintain color and form when properly preserved.
• Gardeners sometimes plant Blue-flowered Sage as a companion plant to help deter certain pests with its strong scent, benefiting nearby plants vulnerable to those insects.
• Beekeepers may cultivate Blue-flowered Sage around their hives to attract bees and enhance honey production with its nectar-rich blossoms.
• Blue-flowered Sage can be incorporated into educational projects in schools to teach children about pollination and the importance of bees in ecosystems.
• The Blue-flowered Sage is sometimes used in crafting, where its flowers and leaves can be included in the making of potpourris, giving a natural and visually pleasing element.
• The plant's foliage, when crushed, can serve as a natural insect repellent, ideal for placing in wardrobes or drawers to deter moths and other insects from clothes and linens.
• As a symbol of wisdom and tranquility in various cultures, the Blue-flowered Sage is occasionally used in ceremonies or as part of meditation gardens for its serene beauty and calming presence.

Feng Shui

Salvia atrocyanea is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Salvia atrocyanea is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Healing: Many Salvia species, including Salvia atrocyanea, which is commonly known as Blue Sage, are associated with healing due to their medicinal properties and their use in traditional herbal remedies.
• Wisdom: Salvia is derived from the Latin word "salvere," meaning "to save" or "to heal," which can be interpreted as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge gained through healing.
• Spirituality: Blue Sage has been used in spiritual practices for cleansing and purification rituals, often symbolizing spiritual enlightenment and the seeking of spiritual truth.
• Protection: The use of sage for smudging in various cultures implies its symbol as a guardian against evil spirits and negative energies.
• Longevity: Because some Salvia plants are known for their longevity and perennial nature, they may symbolize endurance and the ability to thrive over time.