How to identify Sages (Salvia)

Photo By Liam O'Brien , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Sages (Salvia)

Sages plants are characterized by their robust, square stems typical of the mint family. They commonly present as small, upright shrubs, with typical heights and widths ranging from 1 to 3 feet (30 to 91 cm). Leaves of this genus can vary considerably, but collectively they showcase a multitude of shapes and textures that may assist in distinguishing them within their diverse group. Sages species are identifiable by their shared structural traits, rendering them a discernible member of the Lamiaceae family.

Lifespan: Perennial

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Sages

Square stems typical of the mint family, distinguishing feature in Lamiaceae.

Tubular two-lipped flowers with zygomorphic symmetry, vibrant colors like deep purples.

Cluster of four oblong nutlets encased in a dark brown calyx after blooming.

Diverse leaves with visible veins, toothed margin, oval to lance shape, key identifiers.

Rigid, square stem with slight roughness, green with purplish hues, distinctive bushy branches.

Detailed Traits of Sages

Leaf Features

The leaves of sages are diverse, ranging from hairless and scaborus to pubescent and soft. Typically, the leaves have a toothed margin and are reticulate, meaning their veins are easily visible on the underside. They are oval to lance-shaped and can vary in size, commonly around 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. The leaves are generally green, but shades may vary. These features are key for identifying sages.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of sages are tubular and two-lipped, with a smaller upper lip and a larger lower lip, each measuring approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length. These vibrant blooms appear in terminal spikes. The inflorescence is terminal, featuring a two-lipped calyx and corolla with zygomorphic symmetry, exhibiting a bilabiate form. They often emit a mild fragrance, blooming profusely from late spring to early fall, displaying colors ranging from deep purples to blues, reds, and occasionally whites.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of sages is square in cross-section, typically erect and rigid. It is often green, but may develop purplish hues under certain conditions. The texture is slightly rough due to fine, short hairs covering its surface. Stems are moderately thick, averaging around 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm) in diameter. Branching occurs at nodes, giving it a somewhat bushy appearance. These characteristics make the stem of sages easily distinguishable in the Lamiaceae family.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of sages is characterized by a small cluster of four nutlets, which emerge following the flowering stage. Each nutlet is typically oblong or ovoid in shape and has a hard texture. Upon reaching maturity, they are usually a dark brown or black color, measuring up to 0.12 inches (3 mm) in size. These nutlets are encased within a calyx that remains after the corolla has faded. The fruit's compact structure is a distinguishing feature, hinting at sages's membership in the Lamiaceae family.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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