Runcinata means “saw toothed” and concerns the deeply toothed edges of this South African plant’s leaves. At a distance the foliage looks lacy. The plant’s flowers, which bloom in summer, may be white, lilac or purple. Harde Salie is Afrikaans for “hardy Salvia,” and this species tolerates temperatures as low as 5 degrees F.
Salvia runcinata is a drought-resistant sun lover that likes almost any soil that drains well. It is native to Botswana and Zimbabwe as South Africa. This is a sage to grow more for its handsome foliage than its floral display. Use it as a groundcover and add it to perennial borders or the edge of pathways. It also works well in a patio container.
Many African sages are used medicinally. Some observers say the foliage of Salvia runcinata has a fragrance similar to cough medicine.
The foliage contains a number of compounds, including the essential oil Caryophllene, which makes black pepper spicy, and the gum resin Bisabol – a chemical found in German chamomile. Additional compounds include the terpenoid Humulene, which is part of the flavor of Vietnamese Mint. When infused in water, the leaves are used to create a household disinfectant and a wash to treat irritated skin.
We could be wrong, but we don't think deer will eat this leafy medicine cabinet.
Fragrance as well as color attracts butterflies. However, they don't have noses. Instead, butterflies smell and taste with their antennas and feet. Here are some ways to attract them:
If you live in suburbs or rural areas where deer plunder gardens, Salvias (sages) can be part of your plan for discouraging these hungry visitors. Here are some tips.
Xeric plants are excellent for water conservation. They grow well in dry gardens with little to no supplemental watering once established. In fact, overwatering can harm these plants, which are native to dry environments such as deserts and chaparral.
At Flowers by the Sea, we identify all xeric plants with a blue plant marker that warns against overwatering. Here are some tips for growing and understanding our xeric, or blue tag, plants:
1) In a humid region, you may find it difficult to grow plants native to semi-arid and arid environments. Yet xeric plants may succeed if you have a persistently dry area, such as under a roof overhang or in the shelter of a tree.
2) Xeric plants are excellent for locations far from garden hoses, such as along sidewalks -- areas often referred to as "hellstrips."
3) Shipping is hard on xeric plants, which suffer from confinement in small containers as well as boxes. You may see some mold, spots on leaves or withered foliage when they arrive. But xeric plants perk up with proper care while hardening off in partial shade before planting.
4) When amending soil before planting, remember that xeric plants not only need excellent drainage but also flower better in low fertility soil. Fertilize sparingly and use a mix with more phosphorous than nitrogen to encourage flowering and discourage lax overgrowth of foliage.
5) Organic matter, such as compost, is an excellent soil amendment for xeric plants, because it keeps their roots healthy by improving aeration and drainage.
6) When your xeric plants are established, water infrequently to encourage deep root growth and to avoid fungal problems. However, it's a good idea to gently spray dust off foliage about once a week.