Salvia microphylla

Salvia microphylla1

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Baby Sage (Salvia microphylla)

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Salvia microphylla2

Salvia microphylla neurepia

Salvia microphylla, commonly known as baby sage or small-leaf sage, is a species of flowering plant in the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the highlands of Mexico and Arizona, thriving in a variety of habitats including woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes.

Description

Salvia microphylla is a perennial shrub that typically grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. The plant has a bushy habit with numerous branches. The leaves are small, ovate, and aromatic, measuring about 1 to 3 cm in length. The edges of the leaves are often serrated.

The flowers of Salvia microphylla are tubular and range in color from red to pink, and occasionally white. They are arranged in terminal racemes and bloom from late spring to autumn. The flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Cultivation

Salvia microphylla is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and aromatic foliage. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought once established. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages more prolific blooming.

Uses

In addition to its ornamental value, Salvia microphylla has been used in traditional medicine. The leaves and flowers are sometimes used in herbal remedies, although scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited.

Related Species

Salvia microphylla is closely related to other species in the Salvia genus, including:

• Salvia greggii
• Salvia leucantha
• Salvia officinalis

See Also

• List of Salvia species
• Lamiaceae
• Perennial plant
• Pollinator