Salvia yangii - Russian sage

Salvia yangii, formerly known as Perovskia atriplicifolia And colloquially called "Russian sage", belongs to the family of the lip flower (Lamiaceae). This kind was renamed after genetic analyzes their close relationship to the genus Salvia confirmed. Salvia yangii is a perennial, persistent plant that is primarily valued because of its long heyday, its dry resistance and its decorative appearance.

Morphology and growth form

Salvia yangii is an upright growing, bushy half -shrub, which reaches heights of 60 to 120 centimeters. The growth is loose and branched, which gives the plant an airy, filigree structure. The shoots are gray -green and have a slightly woody base that gives the plant additional stability.

The leaves of Salvia yangii are arranged in an opposite manner, pitched or lanceolate and covered with a fine hair, which gives the surface a silvery-green, almost gray appearance. The leaves are slightly aromatic and remember in the fragrance of sage, which is due to the presence of essential oils. This hair plays an important role in reducing evaporation and protects the plant from intensive sunlight.

The striking, blue-violet flowers of Salvia yangii Stand in long, endangeable panicles that can be up to 30 centimeters long. The flowers themselves are tubular and two -lipped, a typical feature of the family Lamiaceae. The upper lip is arched while the lower lip forms a wider platform, which facilitates access. The flowering period ranges from July to September and thus offers a valuable source of food for insects for several months.

Distribution and habitat

Salvia yangii originally comes from the dry and semi -dry regions of Central Asia, especially from Afghanistan, Tibet, Pakistan and western China. It is adapted to a continental climate that is characterized by hot summer and cold winter. The plant grows preferably on dry, well -permeable soils such as sand, gravel or stony substrates, often in open grass landscapes or steppes.

Due to their adaptation to extreme climatic conditions Salvia yangii A high tolerance compared to heat, dryness and nutrient -poor soils. These properties make you a valuable plant for regions with a lack of water and difficult soil conditions.

Ecological meaning

Salvia yangii plays an important role as a nectar source for pollinators such as bees, butterflies and other insects. The long -lasting flowering period ensures that the plant is an important source of food, especially in the summer months, when other flowering plants become rarer. In addition, due to its deep roots, the plant contributes to the stabilization of floors and helps prevent erosion in dry regions.

Use and cultivation

In the garden culture Salvia yangii found a permanent place due to their attractive appearance and low care entitlements. It is mainly used in steppe gardens, prairie plantings and dry beds. The combination of silvery-green leaves and bright blue flowers makes them an eye-catcher in sunny discounts and natural gardens.

The plant prefers sunny locations and well permeable, dry soils. Waterlogging should be avoided because it can lead to root rot. Salvia yangii is hardy up to about -20 ° C, but the above -ground plant parts in cold climates die in winter. A pruning in early spring promotes the compact growth and a rich flower in summer.

Ingredients and use

How many representatives of the genus Salvia also contains Salvia yangii essential oils that give the plant their characteristic fragrance. These oils may have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Traditionally, the plant in Central Asia was used as a remedy for various symptoms, in particular to relieve respiratory problems. Scientific studies on the medical effect of Salvia yangii however, are still limited.

Overall, it is characterized Salvia yangii Due to its adaptability, drought resistance and its ecological importance and is also a popular ornamental plant in modern, water -saving garden concepts.