Salvia corrugata Vahl

Taxonomy and Native Range

Salvia corrugata Vahl is a perennial shrub native to Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador.

Elevation Range

It grows at elevations between 8000 and 9800 feet.

Horticultural Introduction History

The species was introduced to horticulture around the year 2000, following a 1988 plant collecting trip to South America. All cultivated Salvia corrugata plants alive today originate from six seeds that successfully germinated from this 1988 trip.

Mature Height

In its native habitat, Salvia corrugata grows to reach 9 feet in height, while cultivated plants typically reach 5 to 6 feet in height.

Leaf Morphology

It bears evergreen, egg-shaped leaves that are deeply corrugated, measuring 4.5 inches long by 1.5 inches wide. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green; the lower surface has light-colored veins covered in fine, pale tan hairs.

Flower Characteristics

The species produces brilliant purple-blue flowers that are 1 inch long, each held in a small dark purple and green calyx. Flowers grow in crowded whorls, with 6 to 12 flowers forming on each 3 to 4 inch inflorescence.