Meadow Clary

salvia aethiopis

Also known as: ["Meadow Sage","Ethiopian Sage"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Salvia Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its large, woolly leaves and spikes of white or pale lavender flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Salvia
Botanical Name: Salvia aethiopis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in shaded corners.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers moderate to warm temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but not frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize sparingly to avoid salt buildup; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall to prepare for dormancy.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings; seeds can also be used but may be slower to establish.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back stems to just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.

Checklist

Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without 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 stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.

Solution: Protect from frost; move potted plants indoors in winter; use mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or flower drop; may lead to dehydration.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Salvia aethiopis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Salvia aethiopis can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Salvia aethiopis may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Salvia aethiopis due to excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Salvia aethiopis is toxic to cats if ingested, particularly the seeds and roots. The toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and other adverse effects, requiring prompt veterinary care.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy depression loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion of Salvia aethiopis seeds or roots can be toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects. The toxicity can lead to severe discomfort and potential health complications.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Salvia aethiopis contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological harm upon ingestion. The seeds and roots are particularly toxic, leading to gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea dizziness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any parts of the plant. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Salvia aethiopis toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Salvia aethiopis?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Salvia aethiopis attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Baby Sage
View
Mexican bush sage
View
Feverwort
View
Self-heal
View