The Salvia Darcyi Plant

Salvia darcyi plants are more commonly known as Vermilion Bluffs or mountain sage and are a member of the Lamiaceae (mint) family. This deciduous plant is commonly used as an herbaceous ornamental in hot climates. It is not only showy, but it also emits a pleasant fragrance.

Growth

• This perennial plant matures to a height of 3 feet and should be spaced 24 to 36 inches apart from one another. In the winter, the Salvia darcyi dies back to its rootstocks. When springtime temperatures start to warm, the plant again starts to grow and features light green deltoid leaves. Pruning frequently will both force branching and help the plant maintain desired shape. The Salvia darcyi is known to be a hardy plant that does well both in pots and in ground soil.

Flowers

• The Salvia darcyi plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant because of the showy flowers it yields. The red flowers yielded by the Salvia darcyi plant rise from the foliage in tall spikes. These flowers bloom from August through October and attract hummingbirds, bees, butterflies and birds. In some environments, this plant has also been known to bloom in July and January.

Environment

• Salvia darcyi plants grow in elevations of 0 to 5,500 feet. This plant can also act as an annual plant when grown at elevations exceeding 5,500 feet. Salvia darcyi is native of the Sierra Madre Oriental Mountains of Mexico. It should be planted where it receives full sunlight and moderate rainfall. Plant the Salvia darcyi in soil with a pH of 7.6 to 8.5 for the best results.

Climate

• Salvia darcyi can withstand temperatures of 100 F but needs to be planted in a location where it gets some protection from the wind. Salvia darcyi plants grow well in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 12. Soil should be kept moist, but the plant should not be over-watered because it is extremely tolerant of drought. Salvia darcyi is suitable for xeriscaping.

History

• Salvia darcyi originated in Mexico and wasn’t introduced to United States gardens until 1990 when it was brought by Yucca Do Nursery plant collectors. Because it is a new plant to the United States, the ranges in which this plant thrives are still being established.