Overview
Salvia dorrii (Kellogg) Abrams ssp. dorrii var. pilosa (Gray) Strachan & Reveal is a perennial herb that is native to North America. It is commonly known by several names, including "purple sage," "desert sage," and "grey sage." The plant is prized for its fragrance and medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional Native American cultures.Appearance
Salvia dorrii var. pilosa is a bushy shrub that grows up to three feet tall and two to three feet wide. The plant has gray-green leaves that are hairy and lance-shaped, measuring up to four inches long. Its flowers are typically purple, blue, or lavender and are arranged in whorls on a tall, leafy spike.Cultivation
Salvia dorrii var. pilosa thrives in dry, rocky soil, making it well-suited to arid and desert areas. The plant is drought-tolerant, preferring well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings and is relatively low maintenance, requiring occasional pruning to maintain its shape.Uses
Salvia dorrii var. pilosa has long been valued for its medicinal and spiritual properties. In traditional Native American cultures, it is used in various rituals, including smudging ceremonies and healing practices. The plant is also used in traditional herbal medicine for a range of ailments, from coughs and colds to arthritis and digestive problems. In addition to its spiritual and medicinal uses, Salvia dorrii var. pilosa has culinary applications as well. Its leaves can be used fresh or dried and powdered as a seasoning or tea flavoring. The plant's strong aroma and flavor profile make it a popular ingredient in various Southwestern cuisines.Light requirements
Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa grows best in full sunlight. It thrives in hot and dry conditions, making it ideal for regions with a Mediterranean climate. In areas with milder summer temperatures, it may tolerate partial shade.
Temperature requirements
This plant is adapted to thrive in hot and dry conditions, so it prefers warm temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21°C and 32°C). It can survive temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C) if the soil is well-draining and there is no standing water around the roots.
Soil requirements
Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa prefers well-draining, sandy or gravelly soils that are low in organic matter. It can grow in nutrient-poor environments since it doesn't require a lot of fertilizers. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6.0 to 7.5. However, it can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions as long as the soil drains properly.
Cultivation Methods
Salvia dorrii (Kellogg) Abrams ssp. dorrii var. pilosa (Gray) Strachan & Reveal, commonly known as pilose sage or purple sage, is a drought-tolerant shrub native to the western part of North America. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. The best time to plant it is in the fall or spring when the soil is well-drained.
Choose a site that has full sun exposure and well-drained soil. It can grow in different soil types such as sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. Make sure to prepare the soil before planting by amending it with compost or other organic materials. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, plant the sage, and gently firm the soil around it.
Watering Needs
Salvia dorrii var. pilosa is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive with minimal watering. It prefers to be in a dry environment with infrequent but deep watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months. Avoid overwatering or leaving the soil too wet as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Salvia dorrii var. pilosa does not require regular fertilization. However, applying a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help the plant grow and produce more flowers. Use a slow-release fertilizer and follow the package instructions for the right amount and frequency of application.
Pruning
Prune Salvia dorrii var. pilosa after it has finished blooming. Cut back the stems to the leaf axils to promote bushier growth. Avoid pruning the plant too hard, as it can cause stress and delay the next blooming cycle. You can also deadhead the spent flowers to encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period.
Propagation of Salvia dorrii (Kellogg) Abrams ssp. dorrii var. pilosa (Gray) Strachan & Reveal
Salvia dorrii (Kellogg) Abrams ssp. dorrii var. pilosa (Gray) Strachan & Reveal, commonly known as "Pinyon sage," can be propagated through several methods:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Salvia dorrii var. pilosa. The plant produces a high number of viable seeds of around 80% germination rate. Seeds can be sown indoors or directly in the garden in spring or fall. Before sowing the seeds, it's recommended to cold stratify them for at least four weeks to enhance germination. The optimum temperature range for germination is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Seeds should be sown thinly on the surface of the soil and lightly covered with soil. Keep the soil moist during germination, which can take up to 30 days.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation through cuttings is also possible, but it's recommended for experienced gardeners. Cuttings can be taken from the plant's softwood in summer. Remove the bottom leaves and cut the stem below the node. The cuttings should be 3-6 inches long. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in soilless potting mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment with bright light. After a few weeks, check if the cuttings have rooted by slightly pulling them if they resist, they have rooted.
Division propagation
Salvia dorrii var. pilosa can be propagated through division. This method is suitable for mature plants that have overgrown their pots or garden. Divide the plant during the spring when the plant is actively growing. Dig out the entire plant and separate it into sections, making sure each section has healthy roots and new shoots. Replant the sections into prepared soil and keep the soil moist until the plant establishes.
Disease and Pest Management for Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa
Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa, commonly known as the Mojave sage, is a drought-tolerant perennial shrub that is native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. As a hardy plant, it has few pests or diseases, but it is still susceptible to some problems that can compromise its growth and health.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa is spider mites. These tiny pests can cause extensive damage if they are left untreated. Spider mites usually infest plants during hot, dry spells and are often found on the undersides of leaves. To manage them, you can wash the plant with a strong jet of water or spray it with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Aphids can also be a problem for Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa. These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause it to wilt or yellow. To manage aphids, you can blast them off with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Common Diseases
Southern blight, caused by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii, can infect Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa, especially in hot, humid weather. Plants with this disease exhibit wilting or yellowing of leaves, and the stems near the soil line become dark and water-soaked. To manage Southern blight, remove infected plants and improve soil drainage.
Another disease that can affect Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa is powdery mildew. This fungus causes a powdery white coating on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, you can remove infected plant parts, improve air circulation, and avoid watering late in the day.
Prevention
To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy and stress-free. Proper watering, fertilization, and pruning will help the plant grow vigorously and resist pests and diseases. Additionally, avoid overhead watering, as this can promote fungal growth.
Monitoring the plant regularly and removing infected or infested parts promptly can also prevent the spread of pests and diseases to other plants. It is important to use organic or least-toxic pest control methods to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators that can help keep the plant healthy.
By following these tips and taking a proactive approach to management, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your Salvia dorrii ssp. dorrii var. pilosa plant.
