Spanish sage Salvia lavandulifolia
ABOUT
Salvia lavandulifolia, commonly known as Spanish sage, is a perennial plant that is widely appreciated for its aromatic and ornamental qualities. This herbaceous plant boasts a profusion of small, attractive flowers, typically in shades of violet, blue, or occasionally white. The blooms are arranged in whorls along the stems, each flower displaying a bilateral symmetry with a two-lipped appearance that is characteristic of many plants in the sage family. The foliage of Spanish sage also adds to its allure, with leaves that resemble those of lavender, to which it is not closely related despite sharing a similar scent and appearance. The leaves are narrow, elongate, and possess a fine texture, often with a slight grayish-green hue that complements the flowers. They are attached directly to the square stems which are common among plants in the same family. Overall, Spanish sage presents a bushy habit with numerous branches stemming from the base, giving it a full and robust look. The leaves and flowers together create a display that is visually appealing and is also accompanied by a pleasant, aromatic fragrance which is most pronounced when the leaves are brushed or crushed. This fragrance has earned the plant a place in both ornamental gardens and as a source of essential oils. While the size of the plant is variable, its overall form is such that it's often used in garden designs that aim to evoke a sense of Mediterranean or dry-climate regions, bedecked with full sun and well-draining soil conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Spanish Sage, Lavender-leafed Sage
Common names
Salvia lavandulaefolia, Salvia lavandulifolia var. β latifolia, Salvia officinalis subsp. lavandulifolia, Salvia officinalis var. lavandulifolia
ToxicityTo humans
Spanish sage is not generally considered to be toxic to humans. However, ingesting large amounts of any plant can potentially lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Therefore, while Spanish sage is typically used in small amounts for culinary and medicinal purposes, consuming it in excessive quantities could cause digestive upset.
To pets
Spanish sage is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, as with humans, ingestion of a large amount of this plant could result in gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea for pets. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your pet after ingestion, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Salvia lavandulifolia flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in gardens.
- Aromatic Foliage: The plant emits a pleasant lavender-like fragrance, which can be used in potpourris and as a natural air freshener.
- Culinary Uses: The leaves can be used as a seasoning in cooking, similar to common sage, adding flavor to various dishes.
- Ornamental: With its attractive flowers and foliage, Spanish sage serves as an aesthetic addition to landscapes, rock gardens, and borders.
- Drought Tolerant: It is well-suited to dry climates and can thrive with minimal watering, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardens.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system helps stabilize soil, making it useful for slope stabilization and erosion control.
- Companion Planting: Can be planted alongside other herbs and vegetables to aid in pest control and enhance the growth of surrounding plants.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant Activity: Salvia lavandulifolia, commonly known as Spanish sage, has shown potential as an antioxidant. The plant contains compounds that can scavenge free radicals, which are linked to various diseases.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: The essential oil and extracts from Spanish sage have been reported to possess anti-inflammatory properties, helpful in reducing inflammation.
- Antimicrobial Properties: Spanish sage exhibits antimicrobial activity, effective against certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses, thereby potentially aiding in infection prevention and control.
- Cognitive Function Improvement: Some studies suggest that the inhalation or ingestion of Spanish sage essential oil may have beneficial effects on memory and cognitive function.
- Anxiolytic Effects: Spanish sage may have anxiolytic properties, potentially aiding in the reduction of anxiety and stress-related symptoms.
- Antispasmodic Potential: There is evidence to suggest that Spanish sage could have antispasmodic effects, which might help in alleviating muscle spasms or cramps.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Salvia lavandulifolia, commonly known as Spanish sage, can be used as a natural dye, imparting colors to fabrics when processed properly.
- In gardens, Spanish sage serves as a companion plant, helping to repel certain pests due to its aromatic properties.
- The plant can be incorporated into potpourris or dried arrangements due to its pleasant scent and aesthetic appeal.
- Spanish sage leaves are sometimes infused in vinegar or oils to create flavored dressings with a unique twist for culinary use.
- The leaves can be burned as incense, providing a calming aroma similar to lavender.
- Spanish sage is used in perfumery, as its essential oil is a component in crafting fragrant products.
- It can be used in the production of natural cosmetics, such as creams and lotions, for its scent.
- Spanish sage leaves are sometimes used to flavor certain alcoholic beverages, such as craft gins or herbal liqueurs.
- The plant's flowers are edible and can be utilized as a decorative, flavorful addition to salads or desserts.
- In landscaping, Spanish sage can be used to create low hedges or borders with its bushy growth and attractive foliage.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Spanish sage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Spanish sage is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Healing: Spanish Sage, as Salvia lavandulifolia is commonly known, is often associated with health and healing because of its medicinal properties.
- Wisdom: Like other members of the sage family, Spanish Sage symbolizes wisdom and is thought to confer knowledge.
- Longevity: Its enduring and hardy nature makes Spanish Sage a symbol of longevity and immortality.
- Protection: Historically, sage plants were used in rituals and spells for protection, and Spanish Sage carries this symbolism as well.
- Purification: Spanish Sage has been used in smudging ceremonies for purification of spaces and people.
WaterSpanish Sage should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. During the growing season, typically 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant every week is adequate, depending on environmental conditions. In hot, dry climates, increase the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from completely drying out. During the winter or dormant season, reduce watering to every other week or less, monitoring the soil moisture to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
LightSpanish Sage prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. It thrives best in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as too little light can lead to leggy growth and a reduction in flower production.
TemperatureSpanish Sage is hardy in a range of climatic conditions, but it performs best in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. It can survive temperatures as low as 15°F for short periods and can handle high temperatures as long as there is adequate air circulation. To prevent damage, avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 15°F.
PruningPruning Spanish Sage encourages bushier growth and promotes more prolific blooming. Prune lightly in the early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. After the first flush of flowers, cut back by about one-third to encourage a second bloom period in the late summer or early fall.
CleaningNot needed
SoilSpanish sage thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. A good mix for Spanish sage would be one part garden loam, one part coarse sand or perlite, and one part compost to ensure fertility and drainage.
RepottingSpanish sage should be repotted every 1-2 years in spring to refresh the soil and allow for continued growth. Frequent repotting is not needed as the plant prefers to be slightly root-bound.
Humidity & MistingSpanish sage prefers low to moderate humidity levels and can tolerate dry air, making it well-suited for typical indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil for Spanish sage.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil; protect from harsh winter.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA.
Life cycleSalvia lavandulifolia, commonly known as Spanish sage, begins its life as a seed that germinates in favorable conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling stage follows, where initial roots and shoots emerge, developing into a small plant with characteristic sage-like leaves. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it grows in size and produces more leaves, preparing for photosynthesis and further development. The flowering stage is marked by the emergence of inflorescences bearing small, aromatic purple or blue flowers, which are attractive to bees and other pollinators. After pollination, the plant produces small nutlets as fruits, containing seeds that mature and are eventually dispersed, completing the life cycle. In appropriate climates, Spanish sage may persist as a perennial, undergoing multiple flowering and seeding cycles throughout its life.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Spanish sage, Salvia lavandulifolia, is often propagated during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early summer when conditions are ideal for root growth. The most popular and effective method of propagation for this aromatic herb is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This involves selecting a healthy stem that is not too woody or too green, cutting a segment approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, and stripping the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. The base of the cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm environment with high humidity and indirect light until roots have established, which usually takes a few weeks. After rooting, the new plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions and then transplanted to its final growing location.
