Salvia curviflora: A Mexican beauty with pink flowers
Discovery: A journey to the mountains of Mexico
Salvia curviflora is native to the Tehuacán province of Mexico, a mountainous region renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. This sage was first described by American botanist William Davenport in the early 20th century. It is one of many endemic species in the region, where the arid climate and stony soils nurture a unique flora, including this Salvia with its graceful shape and spectacular flowering.
Complete botanical portrait
Scientific name: Salvia curviflora
Family: Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae)
Origin: Tehuacán Province, Mexico
General morphology
Salvia curviflora is a shrubby sage that seduces with its upright shape and bright flowering:
Height: 1.2 meters
Width: 0.8 meters
Shape: Compact and upright
Foliage: Green, lanceolate, persistent
Flowering: From May to October, the flowering consists of tubular flowers of a magnificent pink, forming elegant clusters throughout the summer season.
Ecology and growing conditions
Although Salvia curviflora is a fast-growing plant, it is not hardy and requires special conditions to thrive. It prefers mild climates or areas protected from harsh winters:
Climate: Mild climate or well protected from the cold. Plant it against a south- or west-facing wall in colder regions.
Soil: Well-drained, light and dry.
Hardiness: Around -5°C. It is ideal for gardens with mild climates or to be grown in pots in colder regions.
Care and pruning
Like all shrubby sages, Salvia curviflora benefits from regular pruning to maintain its compact shape and encourage abundant flowering:
Pruning: In spring, after the plant has restarted, cut back 2/3 of the vegetation to stimulate new growth and vigorous flowering.
Care: In winter, protect the plant by mulching it or by bringing it into a veranda in colder regions.
Interest and use in the garden
Use: Salvia curviflora is ideal in a clump or sunny border, for its long and spectacular flowering. It attracts pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.
Aesthetics: It is perfect for modern or Mediterranean gardens, where its upright shape and pink flowering add a touch of color and elegance.
History and curiosity
Salvia curviflora is one of the many species of Mexican sage that were identified during the botanical explorations carried out by European and American scientists in the early 20th century. This species contributes to the floral richness of the Tehuacán region, a place where the unique and diverse flora deserves special attention.