Mexican bush sage
ocimum campechianum
Also known as: ["Mexican bush sage","Texas sage"]
Overview
A perennial shrub native to Mexico and Central America, known for its aromatic foliage and attractive purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Ocimum |
| Botanical Name: | Ocimum campechianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sunny area or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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; cactus or succulent mix can be used with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth at a time to avoid shock.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers stable warmth year-round.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid fertilizing newly propagated plants until roots establish.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; seeds can also be used but are less common for home propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem, cut below a node, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone (optional), place in medium, keep moist and warm, transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity if possible.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or clean water; perlite or sand can be added for better aeration.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a rooting hormone containing auxins.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water or soil; establishment in new pot takes an additional 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots or jars, well-draining medium, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use stems with visible nodes; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching, cut stems just above a leaf node or bud, remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth, improves airflow, and prevents legginess; focus on removing spent flowers and overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and encouraging growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; acclimate to new conditions.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, use a soil aerator if compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, and increase susceptibility to root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots with bubble wrap, avoid overwatering, and provide supplemental heat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration, even with adequate water due to rapid transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting, water deeply and more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); cease in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOcimum campechianum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline exposure and ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOcimum campechianum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine exposure and ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOcimum campechianum, commonly known as Mexican bush sage, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption and use in culinary and medicinal applications.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ocimum campechianum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It has moderate maintenance needs, requiring occasional pruning and watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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