Woodland sage - Salvia nemorosa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Woodland sage

Also known as: Purple wood sage

Woodland sage is a clump-forming plant that is known for its purple flowers that grow on upright purple stems. This plant is especially attractive to butterflies and bees and the leaves give off a minty fragrance. This perennial should be cut back after flowering has concluded, usually in early fall.

Scientific classification

Species

Woodland sage (Salvia nemorosa)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

45 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

45 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Purple, Blue, Pink, Violet

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Woodland sage

Distribution of Woodland sage

Distribution Map

Woodland sage (Salvia nemorosa) is a common sage native to the forests of parts of Eurasia. This flowering herb has been introduced to New Zealand's South Island. While some sages are classed as invasive species, this plant is not.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Groves, woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Economic Value

Essential oil extracted from purple wood sage can be used to produce cosmetics.

Garden Use

Often planted in cottage, wild, and butterfly gardens, the woodland sage can also be found in perennial borders. It is prized for its erect form and violet flowers that offer these gardens an accent. They are also prized for their adaptability to a range of conditions and are drought and animal resistant. Companion plants of the woodland sage include Sahin's Early Flowerer sneezeweed, Roma masterwort and Floribunda rose.

Symbolism

Family happiness, family values

Interesting Facts

It is said that the god of flowers was in trouble and was being chased on earth. When she came to a plain and found nowhere to hide, she asked the roses and lilacs for help, but they both declined. Only the woodland sage helped and quickly bloomed to hide the god of flowers. Since then, roses grew thorns and lilacs smelled bad. Only the woodland sage was awarded a lot of curative effects.

Name Story

Perennial salvia: It is a remarkable plant that is easy to grow and cultivated and has been used by gardeners for many years. Many well-known varieties are hybridized from this plant. As it is a perennial plant, it is called perennial salvia.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Woodland sage, including the following common varieties :

Perennial salvia 'Pink Dawn'Perennial salvia 'Amethyst'Perennial salvia 'Sensation Rose'Perennial salvia 'Rose Marvel'Perennial salvia 'Porzellan'Perennial salvia 'Bordeau Steel Blue'Perennial salvia 'Caradonna'Perennial salvia 'Ostfriesland'Perennial salvia 'Blue Marvel'

Quickly Identify Woodland sage

Distinct square stem with fine hairs and slight purple hue at nodes.

Lance-shaped leaves with veiny, slightly rough texture; green to gray tint.

Vibrant floral spikes in lavender to violet-blue on upright stems.

Leaves 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) long with toothed margins and wrinkled texture.

Fruit is a schizocarp dividing into four chambers with small nutlets.

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Care Guide for Woodland sage

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Woodland sage, originating from woodland clearings, thrives in consistently moist, well-draining soil. Weekly watering is recommended, ensuring moderate humidity. This herbaceous perennial's growth and flowering are closely tied to water availability during its active growing season, making it suitable for outdoor gardens with natural rainfall.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, woodland sage requires balanced nutrition, using higher phosphorus fertilizers pre-bloom for stronger roots and flowers. Apply a general fertilizer in spring, switching to high-phosphorus before flowering. Quarterly applications are adequate, with adjustments for seasonal changes; avoid over-fertilization and direct foliage contact.

Pruning: Woodland sage has tall flower spikes and aromatic leaves, thriving in well-drained soil. Prune in early spring to remove dead growth and promote new shoots. Trim faded blooms in late spring to extend flowering. Seasonal pruning enhances airflow, reduces disease risk, and maintains plant shape.

Propagation: Woodland sage is easily propagated by sowing seeds in spring. The emergence of seedlings indicates successful propagation, and no specific tips are necessary for this process.

Repotting: Repot woodland sage every 2-3 years in spring using a moderately sized pot and well-draining soil. After repotting, water sparingly until new growth appears. Maintain moderate watering and provide full light for optimal growth.

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Images of Woodland sage

Distribution of Woodland sage

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Woodland sage

Care Guide for Woodland sage

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