Baby Sage
salvia microphylla
Also known as: ["Graham's Sage","Little Sage"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, known for its small leaves and vibrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Salvia |
| Botanical Name: | Salvia microphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in dappled shade during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid waterlogged soil; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Monitor temperature changes; protect from frost; adjust watering with temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring and summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop feeding in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; softwood cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems; remove spent flowers; shape the plant evenly.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth; promotes flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape evenly; remove spent blooms.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents congestion.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or cessation of flowering in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; vulnerable to frost damage in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Protect with frost cloth; move containers indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in prolonged heat; may require increased watering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply in the morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSalvia microphylla is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of poisoning in felines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSalvia microphylla is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSalvia microphylla is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is widely used in landscaping and horticulture without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Salvia microphylla?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Salvia microphylla attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Salvia microphylla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it thrives in containers with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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