Pitcher sage

Pitcher Sage (Lepechinia calycina), also known as Pitcher's Sage, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to the western United States, particularly California, where it is found in a variety of habitats including chaparral, oak woodland, and yellow pine forest.

Description

Pitcher Sage is a perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are lance-shaped, up to 10 centimeters long, and have a strong minty aroma. The flowers are tubular, up to 3 centimeters long, and are typically purple or lavender in color. The fruit is a small, dry capsule containing numerous tiny seeds.

Habitat and Distribution

Pitcher Sage is found in a variety of habitats, from coastal scrub to inland chaparral and oak woodland. It is most common in the coastal ranges of California, but can also be found in the Sierra Nevada and other mountain ranges in the western United States.

Cultivation and Uses

Pitcher Sage is often used in native plant gardens and restoration projects due to its drought tolerance and attractive flowers. It is also used in traditional medicine by Native American tribes, who use the leaves to treat a variety of ailments.

Conservation Status

While Pitcher Sage is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, its habitat is being increasingly fragmented by urban development and agriculture. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving existing populations and restoring degraded habitats.

See Also

• List of California native plants
• Flora of California

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