Wild Clary
salvia verbenaca
Also known as: ["Wild Clary Sage","Wild Clary Mint"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and North Africa, known for its aromatic leaves and spikes of small, pale blue or lavender flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Salvia |
| Botanical Name: | Salvia verbenaca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden border, rock garden, or wildflower meadow
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months during the growing season.
- 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 but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun is best; rotate pots for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but may become dormant in winter.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; avoid over-fertilizing; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
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: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and partially shaded environment.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or sandy soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged stems.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot; use fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
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 and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; plant may enter dormancy.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme 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, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSalvia verbenaca is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for feline consumption, though large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicSalvia verbenaca is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for canine consumption, though large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicSalvia verbenaca, commonly known as wild clary, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their mucilaginous properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salvia verbenaca edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: Does Wild Clary attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I water Salvia verbenaca?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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