Salvia, commonly known as sage, is a genus of plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. The genus contains over 1000 species of shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and annuals, with many being popular garden plants. Salvia species are widely used in traditional medicine, aromatherapy, and cooking due to their unique fragrance and medicinal properties.
In this article, we will discuss the 10 most popular species of Salvia that you can grow in your garden.
Salvia officinalis (Common Sage)
Salvia officinalis, commonly known as common sage, is a perennial herb with greyish-green leaves and blue-purple flowers. It is a popular culinary herb used to flavor dishes like stuffing, sausages, and roasted meats. The plant also has medicinal properties and is used to treat sore throats, digestive problems, and anxiety.
Salvia microphylla (Hot Lips Sage)
Salvia microphylla, also known as hot lips sage, is a compact shrub with small, green leaves and white and red flowers. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and the fact that it is easy to grow. The plant attracts hummingbirds and bees to the garden and is often used in rock gardens and borders.
Salvia splendens (Scarlet Sage)
Salvia splendens, also known as scarlet sage, is an annual plant that produces bright red flowers. It is a popular bedding plant due to its attractive flowers and the fact that it is easy to grow. The plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden and is often used in containers and borders.
Salvia elegans (Pineapple Sage)
Salvia elegans, commonly known as pineapple sage, is a perennial shrub with green leaves and red flowers. The plant is named after its pineapple-like fragrance and is often used in teas and desserts. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat digestive problems and respiratory infections.
Salvia nemorosa (Woodland Sage)
Salvia nemorosa, also known as woodland sage, is a perennial plant with blue-purple flowers. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and the fact that it is easy to grow. The plant attracts bees and butterflies to the garden and is often used in borders and rock gardens.
Salvia farinacea (Blue Salvia)
Salvia farinacea, commonly known as blue salvia, is a perennial plant with blue flowers. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and the fact that it is easy to grow. The plant attracts bees and butterflies to the garden and is often used in borders and containers.
Salvia guaranitica (Anise-Scented Sage)
Salvia guaranitica, also known as anise-scented sage, is a perennial plant with blue-purple flowers. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and the fact that it is easy to grow. The plant attracts hummingbirds and bees to the garden and is often used in borders and containers.
Salvia coccinea (Blood Sage)
Salvia coccinea, commonly known as blood sage, is an annual plant that produces red flowers. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and the fact that it is easy to grow. The plant attracts hummingbirds and butterflies to the garden and is often used in borders and containers.
Conclusion
Salvia is a fascinating genus of plants that offers a wide range of species to choose from. Whether you are looking for a popular culinary herb, a stunning bedding plant, or a fragrant perennial shrub, Salvia has something to offer. These plants are not only easy to grow, but they are also beneficial to both humans and wildlife, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden. With their unique fragrance and medicinal properties, Salvia species are a valuable addition to any garden, providing both beauty and function.
