Mealycup sage (Salvia farinacea)

Also known as: Mealy sage, Blue sage

Mealycup sage (Salvia farinacea) flourishes best in full sun but can also tolerate partial sun. In temperate climates, it is typically grown as an annual, while in milder, frost-free areas, it can be a perennial. When planting in regions prone to frost, ensure it's done during frost-free periods. This adaptable plant comes in several varieties, showcasing violet, blue, or white blossoms.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Mealycup sage

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

30 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White Blue Purple Lavender

Images of Mealycup sage

Quickly Identify Mealycup sage

Erect, squared stems with fine trichomes

Opposite, ovate-lanceolate leaves with serrated edges

Terminal raceme of zygomorphic blue-purple flowers

Schizocarp fruit segmented into four nutlet chambers

Robust clumps reaching 2-3 feet in height and 1-2 feet in width

Scientific Classification of Mealycup sage

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Mint

Genus

Sages

Species

Mealycup sage

Planting and Growing of Mealycup sage

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Mealycup sage?

When watering Salvia farinacea, aim to provide about 500 ml to ensure the soil is thoroughly moist without being waterlogged. The principle here is to water until you see some drainage but to avoid pooling water which can rot the roots.

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More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Mealycup sage?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Salvia farinacea thrives in full to partial sun conditions. This plant benefits from consistent, ample sunlight, which boosts its flowering and overall plant robustivity.

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What are the benefits of ensuring proper light for Salvia farinacea? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Mealycup sage?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

Salvia farinacea thrives best in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. This range provides the necessary warmth for optimal photosynthesis and robust growth, ensuring vibrant flowering and healthy foliage development. Maintaining this temperature range will help in achieving the plant's full potential and boost its overall resilience.

What Soil is Best for Mealycup sage?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sand soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Salvia farinacea thrives in nutrient-rich soil, which provides the essential minerals and nutrients needed for healthy growth. Rich soil supports robust root development and abundant flowering. Soil with excellent drainage is crucial for Salvia farinacea to prevent root rot. Sandy loam and loam are perfect as they ensure water doesn't stagnate, allowing roots to breathe. While it prefers well-draining soil, moderate moisture retention helps maintain a consistent moisture level, preventing drought stress and promoting vigorous plant health. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Mealycup sage?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Salvia farinacea, it's ideal to apply liquid fertilizer at a concentration of 1/2 the recommended dose on the package. This ensures the plant receives the necessary nutrients without overwhelming its roots. Over-fertilization can lead to leaf burn and stunted growth, so it's critical to adhere to these guidelines. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Mealycup sage?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

When pruning Salvia farinacea, it's crucial to make clean cuts. Ragged cuts can make the plant susceptible to pests and diseases. Always use sharp tools and sterilize them before use to avoid infecting the plant. Cut at a 45-degree angle to shed water and reduce the chance of rot. While Salvia farinacea can be pruned practically all year long, avoid heavy pruning late in the season. Extensive cutting back in the late fall might leave the plant vulnerable to cold damage as temperatures drop. Light pruning can be done in winter, but major reshaping is best saved for spring when the plant is actively growing. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Mealycup sage plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early summer

Before sowing seeds, ensure seed trays are clean and filled with light, well-draining soil mix. Slightly moisten the soil to create a conducive environment for germination before placing seeds on the surface and covering them lightly.

Select healthy, disease-free branches from the parent plant during the growing season. Cut a 4-6 inch section below a node, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful root formation.

Once seedlings have developed a strong root system and are large enough to handle, carefully transplant them into individual pots or prepared garden beds. Ensure they have adequate space to grow and establish themselves.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Mealycup sage plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Repot Salvia farinacea when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes of its current pot or if the plant's growth seems stunted. These are clear signals that it's time for a new home with more space for root expansion.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one. The new pot should have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which benefits the plant by ensuring healthy airflow and preventing root rot.

Choose a well-draining potting mix, ideally with a combination of perlite, peat, and pine bark. This mixture ensures optimal drainage and aeration, allowing the roots to take in oxygen while avoiding waterlogged conditions.