Chia Sage
(Salvia columbariae)
Chia Sage (Salvia columbariae)
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Photo by: NatureShutterbug | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: NatureShutterbug | Publisher: Flickr |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Salvia columbariae, commonly known as Chia Sage, is an annual herb native to the chaparral, desert washes, and open woodlands of the Southwestern United States and Mexico. It typically grows 10 to 50 cm (3.9 to 19.7 in) tall, with a compact form. The plant produces dense clusters of pale blue to deep blue, occasionally purple-tipped flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators. Flowering occurs from March to May, and the flowers are known for their showiness. The fruit is a nutlet, tan to grey in color, measuring 1.5 to 2 mm (0.059 to 0.079 in) long.
Chia Sage is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also celebrated for its edible seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and have been traditionally used by Native American cultures. In cultivation, Chia Sage requires minimal maintenance, preferring full sun exposure and low water once established. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Chia Sage is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also celebrated for its edible seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and have been traditionally used by Native American cultures. In cultivation, Chia Sage requires minimal maintenance, preferring full sun exposure and low water once established. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.3-2 feet
- Width: 0.9-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: Blue, Purple
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention:
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Native to chaparral, desert washes, and open woodlands of the Southwestern United States and Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Chia, Golden Chia, Desert Chia, Ziegler’s Sage
Scientific Names: , Salvia columbariae, Pycnosphace columbariae, Pycnosphace columbarii,
GBIF Accepted Name: Salvia columbariae Benth.