Hummingbird sage (Salvia spathacea, Pittonia 2: 236 (1892))

Family: Lamiaceae

Author: Greene

Bibliography: Pittonia 2: 236 (1892)

Year: 1892

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Salvia

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. & SW. California

Description

Hummingbird sage, scientifically known as Salvia spathacea, is a captivating perennial herb that hails from the family Lamiaceae. First described by the botanist Greene in the scientific publication Pittonia in 1892, this plant is renowned for its striking appearance and robust presence in its native habitat of western and southwestern California.

The Hummingbird sage thrives predominantly in coastal sage scrub and chaparral environments, where its vibrant spikes of deep magenta flowers stand out vividly against the green backdrop of its broad, velvety leaves. This floriferous plant has evolved to attract a variety of pollinators, most notably hummingbirds, after which it is named. The tubular blossoms are perfectly shaped for these birds, providing them with ample nectar, and in turn, ensuring the plant’s successful pollination.

Apart from its ecological role, Hummingbird sage is cherished in gardens for its ornamental value and its delightful aromatic foliage. The leaves release a pleasant, fruity fragrance when brushed or crushed, adding another layer of sensory appeal to this versatile plant. Garden enthusiasts often prefer Salvia spathacea for its low maintenance needs and its ability to grow in shady areas, making it a popular choice for ground cover in landscapes that mimic its native understories.

The cultural significance and the ecological importance of the Hummingbird sage cannot be overstated. It plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and maintaining the health of its native ecosystems. Given its beauty and utility, Salvia spathacea continues to captivate botanists, gardeners, and nature lovers alike, symbolizing the harmonious relationships within the natural world.

Common Names

Eng: hummingbird sage
En: Hummingbird sage

Synonyms

• Audibertia grandiflora (Benth.)
• Audibertiella grandiflora ((Benth.) Briq.)
• Ramona grandiflora ((Benth.) Briq.)

Distribution

• California (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Apr 16, 2022 by ben parnas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 7, 2021 by regina cogdell (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 13, 2022 by Monika Kopp (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 12, 2014 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 22, 2016 by EOL − Chris Evers (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Feb 19, 2020 by Winslow (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 13, 2022 by Monika Kopp (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 8, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 23, 2020 by Lucy Garcia-Storey (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 1, 2022 by Anne Mossberg (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Mar 15, 2014 by EOL − Hollis Marriott (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 3, 2014 by EOL − marikcl (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 7, 2014 by EOL − naturalist eve (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 6, 2016 by EOL − R.J. Adams (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 6, 2016 by EOL − R.J. Adams (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Fruit

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2927042)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:226989-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Salvia spathacea Greene)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth