Salvia interrupta: A Moroccan sage from the Atlas Mountains
The discovery: A treasure from Morocco
Salvia interrupta, a sage native to the mountains of Morocco, was scientifically described in 1801 by Danish botanist Peter Schousboe. The latter, then consul in Tangier, was in charge of collecting plants for the botanical garden of the University of Copenhagen. Salvia interrupta was first observed in the undergrowth of the Atlas Mountains, where it thrives at an altitude of 400 to 500 meters, in calcareous and well-drained soils. This discovery was followed by an introduction of the plant in Europe a few years later, captivating gardeners and botanists for its beauty and unique characteristics.

A botanical portrait: A stocky and aromatic sage
Scientific identification
Scientific name: Salvia interrupta
Family: Lamiaceae (Lamiaceae)
Origin: Mountains of Morocco, especially in the Atlas Mountains, at altitudes of 400 to 500 meters.
Morphological description
Size:
Height: About 1 meter.
Width: Rounded and stocky shape.
Shape: Compact and bushy, with dense branching that gives it a vigorous appearance.
Foliage:
Shape: Lanceolate, rough, and slightly toothed leaves.
Color: Greyish-green, aromatic, reminiscent of common sages.
Evergreen: Semi-evergreen, depending on climatic conditions.
Flowering
Period: May to July-August, relatively short compared to other sages.
Flowers:
Color: Purplish blue with a contrasting white throat.
Form: Tubular flowers arranged in tight clusters.
Duration: Although flowering is short, it is intense and attracts many pollinators.
Adaptations and ecology
Natural habitat: Undergrowth of the Atlas Mountains, where it prefers calcareous and well-drained soils.
Hardiness: Very good if the soil is well drained. It can withstand relatively cold temperatures, but excessive humidity can be fatal.
Soil requirements: Dry, very permeable and sunny soils. It does not tolerate excess water well and must be grown in dry and well-aerated soil conditions.

Horticultural uses and prospects
Use
Salvia interrupta is ideal for dry gardens, particularly in rockeries or clumps where drainage is essential. It can also be grown along paths or in Mediterranean-style gardens, where its purplish-blue flowers will bring a touch of color in the summer.
Ornamental Value
The bright and colorful blooms of this sage, combined with its dense, aromatic foliage, make it an interesting decorative plant. It is particularly suited to Mediterranean or dry gardens, and can be used to add texture and color to more arid landscapes.

Gardener's Tip: Growing Salvia interrupta successfully
Exposure: Choose a location in full sun, in a well-ventilated area. This sage loves heat and light, but hates stagnant moisture.
Soil: Make sure the soil is very well-drained, sandy or calcareous, and avoid any water retention. Heavy and clayey soils are not suitable for it.
Maintenance:
Watering: Limit watering to the summer and never leave stagnant water around the plant.
Pruning: In early spring, prune the plant short to stimulate new growth and maintain its compact shape.
Fertilization: Although the plant tolerates poor soils, a moderate addition of organic compost in late winter can promote better growth.

A robust sage with Moroccan roots
Salvia interrupta is a fascinating plant due to its origin in the Atlas Mountains and its unique adaptations to arid climatic conditions. With its purplish-blue flowers, its hardiness and its bushy habit, it is a magnificent addition to Mediterranean gardens and rockeries. Grown in suitable conditions, it will thrive, offering a short but intense flowering. A sage that is both robust and delicate, reminiscent of the wild beauty of the Moroccan mountains.