Diviner's Sage, Sage of the Seers
salvia divinorum
Also known as: ["Diviner's Sage","Sage of the Seers","Lady Sage"]
Overview
A psychoactive plant native to Oaxaca, Mexico, known for its hallucinogenic properties due to the compound salvinorin A.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Salvia |
| Botanical Name: | Salvia divinorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a humid environment with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments to maintain humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix with organic matter, such as peat or coco coir.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; place in a spot with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered sunlight
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for direct light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
rich, well-draining potting mix with added organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); cooler temperatures at night; avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, container, water or soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep cuttings humid; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node; remove spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or weak stems; encourage bushier growth; maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at an angle; remove debris; monitor for new growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the psychoactive compounds in Salvia divinorum. Ingestion can cause severe neurological effects, including disorientation and agitation, due to the potent action of salvinorin A on the central nervous system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Salvia divinorum can lead to significant neurological and behavioral disturbances due to the potent psychoactive effects of salvinorin A. The compound can disrupt normal brain function, leading to disorientation and other adverse reactions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalvia divinorum contains the psychoactive compound salvinorin A, which can induce profound alterations in perception, mood, and consciousness. Physiologically, it acts as a kappa-opioid receptor agonist, leading to dissociative effects. While not typically lethal, its effects can be intense and disorienting, potentially causing psychological distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if consumed
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salvia divinorum legal?
A: Legality varies by region; it is illegal in some countries and states while permitted in others.
Q: How is Salvia divinorum used?
A: Traditionally used for spiritual and medicinal purposes, often smoked or brewed as tea.
Q: Is Salvia divinorum safe?
A: Its psychoactive effects can be intense; use is not recommended without proper knowledge and caution.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered sunl |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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