Phyllis' Fancy Sage Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy'
ABOUT
Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' is a striking plant that boasts a lush foliage and an attractive blooming habit. Its leaves are typically a rich green color, adding a sense of vitality and freshness to the plant's overall appearance. They may have a textured surface, possibly with fine hairs or a slightly wrinkled look that adds to their charm. The flowers are what truly set Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' apart. They often appear on long, arching stems and can emerge in vibrant colors that attract the eye and various pollinators alike. Typical flower colors for salvias can include shades of blue, purple, or even white, but the exact hue of 'Phyllis' Fancy' is unique and may not easily fit into a single color category. Each individual bloom may resemble a small tube or a bell and they are usually clustered together, forming showy spires or whorls along the stem. These delicate-looking yet hardy flowers can give the plant a somewhat spiky appearance from a distance, due to their arrangement and upward orientation. The overall shape of Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' can be described as upright and somewhat bushy, giving it a substantial presence even without specific reference to its size. This plant is likely to have a robust habit, making it a focal point in any garden setting, courtesy of both its floral and foliar attributes. It's a perennial that could possibly continue to offer this eye-catching display year after year, provided it is given proper care.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Phyllis' Fancy Sage, Fancy Sage
Common names
Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy'
ToxicityTo humans
Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy', more commonly known as sage, is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans when consumed in typical culinary quantities. However, ingesting large amounts of sage, especially in the form of an essential oil, could potentially cause symptoms such as restlessness, vomiting, vertigo, rapid heart rate, tremors, seizures, and kidney damage. It is also important for pregnant women to avoid consuming large quantities of sage because it contains thujone, which can be toxic in excess amounts and may lead to miscarriage.
To pets
Sage, the common name for Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy', is also generally considered to be non-toxic to pets. However, similar to humans, the ingestion of large quantities, particularly in the concentrated form such as essential oil, can lead to gastrointestinal upset or central nervous system depression. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, depression, or lethargy. It is always best to prevent pets from consuming plants in large quantities and to consult a veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested a potentially toxic substance.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' offers striking purple and white bicolor flowers that provide visual interest in the garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms are a food source for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it has low water requirements, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-efficient gardens.
- Deer Resistance: It is generally resistant to deer, which can help prevent damage to the garden from these animals.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care once established, making it a time-saver for busy gardeners.
- Long Blooming Season: Offers a long flowering period from late spring to fall, providing continuous color in the landscape.
- Herbaceous Perennial: As a perennial, it comes back year after year, reducing the need for annual replanting.
- Easy to Propagate: Can easily be propagated from cuttings or division, allowing gardeners to expand their plantings without additional cost.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for pots and containers, it is versatile for patio gardens or those with limited space.
- Companion Planting: Complements other plants in mixed borders or beds, enhancing overall garden design.
- Aromatic Foliage: The scented leaves can be enjoyed when brushed against or touched, adding a sensory experience to the garden.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Decorative dye: The leaves and flowers of Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and yarn, producing shades of blue and purple.
- Companion planting: Salvia is beneficial in the garden as it can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the overall health and productivity of the garden.
- Culinary decoration: The vibrant flowers can be used as an edible garnish to add color and a hint of sage flavor to salads and desserts.
- Floral arrangements: Sturdy and long-lasting when cut, the striking flowers and foliage of Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' make it suitable for fresh or dried floral arrangements.
- Homemade potpourri: Dried leaves and flowers can be added to potpourri mixtures for a pleasant aroma and to benefit from its calming properties.
- Natural insect repellent: The plant can be used in gardens to dissuade certain insects, thanks to its aromatic properties.
- Homemade sachets: Dried Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' can be put into sachets to impart a pleasant fragrance in drawers and closets.
- Artistic inspiration: Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' can be used as a subject in botanical drawing, watercolor painting or photography due to its aesthetic appeal.
- Book pressing: The flowers and leaves when pressed can be used in herbariums or to create decorative bookmarks or other pressed flower crafts.
- Soil improvement: When used as a green manure, the plant can be plowed back into the soil to improve soil structure and fertility.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe common name of Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' is Salvia, and in Feng Shui, Salvia is used to promote healing and purification. It can be placed in the health area of the home or garden, which is the center left part from the entrance, to enhance wellness and balance energy flows.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe common name of Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' is Salvia, and Salvia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Wisdom - Salvias are often associated with wisdom due to the Latin root of their name, "salvere," which means "to save" or "to heal," suggesting a deep knowledge of medicinal properties.
- Healing - The variety of Salvia, including 'Phyllis' Fancy', is known for its use in herbal medicine and aromatherapy, symbolizing the healing of both the body and mind.
- Longevity - Some cultures believe that Salvia promotes a long life and even immortality, making it a symbol of longevity and enduring presence.
- Spirituality - Salvia is also connected to spiritual practices and is used in cleansing rituals, thus representing purification and the divine.
- Protection - In some traditions, Salvia is thought to offer protection against evil and negativity, embodying safety and guardianship.
WaterFor the Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy', or more commonly known as Fancy Sage, it is important to maintain consistent moisture but avoid overwatering. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water each time for an established plant in the landscape. Adjust the watering frequency based on weather conditions; for instance, you may need to water more often during prolonged hot, dry periods. In cooler months or when the plant is not actively growing, reduce watering but do not allow the soil to completely dry out. Always check the soil moisture level a few inches below the surface before watering to ensure the plant requires additional moisture.
LightFancy Sage thrives in full sun conditions, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for planting Fancy Sage is in a location that receives unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, such as a southern or western exposure in the garden. Partial shade can also be acceptable, especially in hot climates where some afternoon shade can prevent scorching, but full sun is preferred for the best flowering results.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Fancy Sage is between 60°F and 85°F, which promotes healthy growth and flowering. This plant can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F but should be protected from frost to ensure it returns in the spring. During the heat of summer, if temperatures consistently exceed 90°F, providing some afternoon shade can help to reduce stress on the plant.
PruningPruning Fancy Sage promotes bushier growth and enhances blooming. Trim the plant lightly in the spring after the last frost to shape it and remove any dead or damaged growth. Additional light pruning can be done throughout the summer to encourage new flowers, as Fancy Sage blooms on new growth. The best time to perform a more substantial cutback is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Phyllis' Fancy Salvia, a well-drained soil mix is crucial. Combine two parts garden soil, one part perlite or coarse sand, and one part compost to enhance drainage and fertility. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingPhyllis' Fancy Salvia should be repotted every 1-2 years to prevent root crowding and refresh soil nutrients. Spring is the best time to repot, just before the growing season begins.
Humidity & MistingPhyllis' Fancy Salvia prefers moderate humidity levels, reflecting their Mediterranean origin. Aim for humidity levels between 40-60% for optimal growth, but they can tolerate lower levels without significant issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-drained soil, and moderate watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy', commonly known as Fancy Sage, begins with seed germination, usually in warm, moist soil in spring. Seedlings soon emerge and the plant enters a vegetative stage, developing a sturdy root system, foliage, and a branching structure. As it matures, Fancy Sage starts to produce spikes of vibrant purple and white flowers, typically in late spring or summer, which attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. Following pollination, the plant produces small nutlet seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. In favorable conditions, Fancy Sage may continue to grow and bloom recurrently until the first frosts. As a perennial, it then enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, with the cycle repeating the following spring as temperatures rise and days lengthen.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy', more commonly known as Phyllis' Fancy Sage, is by stem cuttings. Typically, propagation from stem cuttings is best undertaken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate, a gardener would cut a 3 to 6 inch (about 7.5 to 15 cm) piece of stem from a healthy part of the plant, making sure the cutting includes at least one leaf node. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage growth. The cutting is then planted in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix, ensuring the leaf nodes are buried. The pot should be kept in a warm area with indirect sunlight and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new sage plant can be transplanted into the garden.
