Lyreleaf Sage
salvia lyrata
Also known as: ["Purple Sage","Cough Bane","Wild Sage"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to eastern North America, known for its lyre-shaped leaves and purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Salvia |
| Botanical Name: | Salvia lyrata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden beds, rock gardens, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to moderate-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead flowers as they fade; light pruning throughout the growing season; major cutback annually in late autumn or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; can be cut back hard in late autumn or early spring if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight preferred, but tolerates some shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with average fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend with organic matter for better growth; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures from -20°F to 90°F; prefers cool to moderate temperatures during active growth.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer sparingly; water thoroughly after feeding; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; seeds can also be sown in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or early autumn when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may be ready to transplant in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; shear lightly to shape; cut back to near ground level for overwintering.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim back leggy growth to maintain shape; cut back hard in late autumn or early spring to rejuvenate.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Clean tools before pruning; remove dead or diseased growth; prune to encourage airflow; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or extreme temperatures.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold; frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure can lead to dieback or death in non-hardy zones.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers; choose hardy cultivars for cold climates.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; water after fertilizing; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Salvia lyrata is not heavy feeder; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSalvia lyrata is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to feline health when ingested, though excessive consumption may cause mild digestive issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicSalvia lyrata is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines, though large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicSalvia lyrata, commonly known as lyreleaf sage, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its fibrous nature and potential irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salvia lyrata edible?
A: The leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in salads or as garnishes.
Q: Does Salvia lyrata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its flowers.
Q: How much sunlight does Salvia lyrata need?
A: It thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun and even some shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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