Salvia plebeia R.Br.

Nomenclature and Growth Form

Salvia plebeia R.Br. is an annual or biennial herb native to a broad region of Asia.

Habitat and Elevation Range

It inhabits hillsides, streamsides, and wet fields, growing at elevations ranging from sea level up to 2,800 m (9,200 ft).

Stem and Leaf Morphology

This species produces erect stems that reach a height between 15 cm (5.9 in) and 90 cm (35.4 in), and bears leaves that range in shape from elliptic-ovate to elliptic-lanceolate.

Inflorescence Structure

Its inflorescences consist of 6-flowered verticillasters arranged in racemes or panicles.

Corolla Characteristics

The corolla is distinctly small, measuring only 4.5 mm (0.18 in) across, and displays a wide range of possible colors: reddish, purplish, purple, blue-purple, blue, and rarely white.