"Salvia scabra: A sage with a seaside feel
A beauty from South Africa
Salvia scabra is a species native to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, where it populates the seaside, creating a striking vision between the sea and the land. This sage was described and named by Carl Linnaeus in 1781, but it was not until the 1990s that it was introduced into cultivation in California, where it quickly adapted to Mediterranean gardens.
The discovery: a sage from distant horizons
Although described by Linnaeus in the 18th century, Salvia scabra is a more recent introduction to the horticultural world. Discovered at the Cape of Good Hope, this plant has crossed the oceans to join gardens around the world. Its adaptation to the Mediterranean climate makes it a plant of choice in regions with well-drained and dry soil, particularly in California, where it has found a breeding ground favourable cultivation in the 1990s.
A botanical portrait: a robust seaside plant
Scientific identification
Scientific name: Salvia scabra
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: Cape of Good Hope, South Africa
Morphological description
Salvia scabra is a perennial plant that, while being robust, offers a delicate and graceful flowering.
Size: Approximately 60 to 80 cm in height, with a width varying between 40 and 60 cm.
Form: Upright, bushy, with slightly downy stems and leathery foliage.
Foliage:
Colour: Dark green and shiny, sometimes with silvery nuances.
Texture: Very leathery, with slightly toothed edges and a texture reminiscent of pelargoniums.
Shape: Oval and slightly rough.
Flowering: Flowering extends from June to autumn.
Flowers: Very tender pink, arranged in upright, dense spikes, forming a soft contrast with the robust foliage.
Adaptations and ecology: A seaside plant
Originally from the coastal region of the Cape of Good Hope, Salvia scabra has evolved to thrive in dry, well-drained soils. It is adapted to Mediterranean conditions and maritime areas where the air is salty and the soils poor.
Natural habitat: Arid, coastal areas of South Africa, by the sea.
Tolerance: Drought-tolerant plant, but not very hardy, it requires protection in cold climates.
Root system: Shallow but dense, adapted to sandy, well-drained soils.
Gardener's tip: Easy to grow and generous flowering
Exposure: Full sun or partial shade, especially in regions with a Mediterranean climate.
Soil: Well-drained, dry or slightly sandy soils. Too much moisture in the soil can hinder its growth.
Care:
Watering: Moderate, suitable for dry conditions.
Pruning: Light pruning after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth.
Propagation: By cutting or sowing in spring.
Garden use: A delicate touch for Mediterranean gardens
Salvia scabra is an ideal ornamental plant for dry gardens, rockeries and Mediterranean gardens. Its tender flowers and leathery leaves make it a perfect plant to add a discreet touch of colour while being able to withstand difficult conditions.
Use:
Perfect for dry gardens and well-drained areas, ideal for beds and rockeries.
Its pink flowers are a subtle and colourful addition to natural or wild gardens.
Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to the garden's ecosystem.
Varieties and Notes: A Subtle and Delicate Plant
Although Salvia scabra is primarily grown for its soft pink blooms, it is less common in gardens compared to other salvias. However, its hardiness and ability to live in arid conditions make it an interesting plant for gardeners looking for a hardy ornamental plant.
Medicinal Properties: Like many salvias, it may have medicinal properties, although less widespread than those of Salvia officinalis.
Ornamental Properties: Valued for its drought resistance and subtle appearance, it is ideal in Mediterranean gardens or as a seaside plant.

Salvia scabra is distinguished by its ability to thrive in difficult conditions, while offering delicate blooms and leathery foliage. Its discreet beauty and adaptation to dry soils make it a valuable plant for Mediterranean gardens, where it will bring a touch of color and robustness.
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