Salvia misella
(River Sage)
Common Names, Latin Name, and Family
Some of its common names include river sage, Florida Keys sage, and southern river sage.
Its Latin name is Salvia misella.
It is in the Laminaceae, or mint, family.
Form
A delicate, perennial wildflower that grows to about a foot in height and spreads out to make a type of groundcover.
Leaves
Opposite and stalked with toothed margins and ovate shape.
The leaf blades extend slightly onto the petioles.
Flowers
Tiny blue flowers appear in the spring, summer and fall.
Habitat
Forests, stream banks, moist areas with good sunlight.
Native Range
It is found naturally occurring in Florida from Alachua County southward into the Keys.
It is also found in the West Indies, Mexico, and South America
Landscape Use
In the home landscape it grows in part-shade to full sun with moist soils, but not standing water.
Any spot that gets a little extra moisture will allow this plant a place in your green space.
Wildlife Uses
Small butterflies and bees use the flowers as a nectar source.
Birds and squirrels will eat the seeds and flower buds.
Propagation
It is easily propagated from seed and also transplants very easily.
One small piece with any rootlets will grow if kept moist.