Salvia involucrata at Kew Gardens, London, UK
Salvia involucrata is a herbaceous perennial. They also call it Roseleaf Sage or Rosey Leaf Sage. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family of plants. It is native to Mexico and has colorful and larger bracts which is the reason for it being named involucrata. It grows in forests and shady locations.
Salvia involucrata can grow to about 5ft or 1.5m. The flowers and the bracts are dark pink or purplish-red in color. Salvia involucrata flowers throughout summer and autumn. Pair of bracts usually envelope three flowers and they fall as flowers develop. The foliage is dark green and ovate or cordate-shaped.
How to grow Salvia involucrata:
Grow Salvia involucrata in the sun or light shade. Plant Salvia involucrata in humus-rich, fertile soil, that is well-drained. It likes deep watering but drainage is also important. Propagate by division or cuttings in summer. Prune back in early spring so it regenerates fresh growth. Generally, it is disease-free. Watch out for leafhoppers, slugs, and snails. They use Salvia involucrata in traditional medicine, especially for memory enhancement.
