Eyelash Sage Salvia blepharophylla

Water

The eyelash sage (Salvia blepharophylla) prefers regular watering to maintain moist, but not waterlogged, soil, particularly during its active growing season in spring and summer. Water it thoroughly, allowing the water to seep deep into the soil, which encourages deeper root growth. Aim to water it once every week, providing about 1 inch of water each time, which equates to approximately 0.6 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Cut back on watering in the cooler months to every two weeks or when the soil feels dry to the touch an inch below the surface. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant has good drainage.

Light

Eyelash sage thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. Ideally, place it in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Morning sunlight with afternoon shade often provides optimal lighting conditions for this plant, protecting it from the intense heat of late afternoon sun which can sometimes stress the plant.

Temperature

Eyelash sage prefers temperature conditions ranging from 50 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but for a short duration only. To ensure robust growth and flowering, keep the temperature around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit and protect the plant from frost and cold drafts.

Pruning

Prune eyelash sage to encourage bushier growth and maintain plant shape. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged stems, and you can also trim back the plant by up to one-third of its size to promote fresh growth. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, should be done regularly to encourage continuous blooming.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Eyelash Sage (Salvia blepharophylla) is well-draining, with an abundant amount of organic matter to provide nutrients. A good mix can be made from equal parts garden soil, perlite or sand, and compost or well-rotted manure. The preferred soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.5.

Repotting

Eyelash Sage should be repotted every 1-2 years to prevent it from becoming root-bound and to replenish its nutrients. Spring is the best time for repotting when the plant is entering a period of active growth.

Humidity & Misting

Eyelash Sage thrives in moderate humidity levels but can tolerate lower humidity typical of indoor environments. They do not require high humidity and can flourish in the natural ambient humidity of most homes without the need for extra humidity-enhancing methods.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-draining soil, full sun to partial shade.

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Salvia blepharophylla, commonly known as Eyelash-Leaved Sage, begins with seed germination once the seeds are sown in well-draining soil and provided with adequate warmth and moisture. After germination, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants with foliage characteristic of Salvia species, showing textured, ovate leaves and a gradually forming woody base. As the plants mature, they enter the flowering stage, producing bright red, tubular flowers that are attractive to pollinators like bees and hummingbirds; this stage is crucial for the plant’s reproductive process. Following pollination, the flowers develop into small, black seeds. The mature plant may continue to grow and bloom for several years if conditions are favorable, typically treated as a perennial in milder climates. Eventually, if the plant succumbs to environmental stress, disease, or simply ages, it reaches the end of its life cycle, at which point it may self-seed or require human intervention for propagation.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-summer

• Propogation: The most popular method for propagating Salvia blepharophylla, commonly known as Eyelash Sage, is by taking stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6 inch (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) piece just below a node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting. Then, insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix or a mixture of peat and perlite. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and place the pot in a location with bright, indirect light. The cutting should root within a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.