About Salvia africana L.
Salvia africana L. is a heavily branched, aromatic perennial shrub that is native to the coast of the Cape Provinces of South Africa. It grows on coastal dunes and nearby rocky hills at elevations up to 600 m. This species reaches a height of 60–90 cm, and has round, grayish stems covered in hairs that release a strong scent when brushed. Its leaves are soft grey-green, lighter in color on the underside, and elliptical in shape. The plant's inflorescences can grow up to 30 cm long, with 2 to 6 flowers in each whorl. Flower color ranges from pale blue to pale violet or pink. Carl Linnaeus originally named this species Salvia africana caerulea in 1753. Because this original name included two specific epithets, it violates Article 23.6(c) of the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants, and the name was corrected to Salvia africana. The incorrect form Salvia africana-caerulea can still be found in use.
