Sage, Lyre-leaf

Salvia lyrata (Lyreleaf Sage)

Salvia lyrata, commonly known as Lyreleaf Sage, is a versatile and hardy native perennial that features striking purple flower spikes in spring and early summer. This adaptable plant is found in meadows, woodland edges, and open areas, thriving in a variety of soils, from dry to moist. Its semi-evergreen rosettes provide year-round interest, and it is an excellent groundcover for naturalized areas. Lyreleaf Sage is a favorite of pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies, and its low-maintenance growth habit makes it perfect for both wild and cultivated landscapes.

Key Characteristics:

• Pollinator Magnet: Lyreleaf Sage is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, providing a valuable nectar source during its spring blooming period. It's especially beneficial for early-season pollinators when many other flowers have yet to bloom.

• Groundcover and Erosion Control: The rosettes of Lyreleaf Sage spread to form a dense, low-maintenance groundcover, making it ideal for erosion control in naturalized landscapes or areas with poor soil. Its ability to thrive in both dry and moist soils enhances its versatility.

• Medicinal Uses: Historically, Lyreleaf Sage has been used in folk medicine to treat sore throats, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. The leaves can be made into teas or poultices for their mild astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Thrives in Tough Conditions: Lyreleaf Sage is drought-tolerant and can handle a variety of soil types, from sandy to clay, and even compacted soils. It’s well-suited for xeriscaping, meadow plantings, or other low-water-use areas.

• Deer Resistant: Like many members of the mint family, Lyreleaf Sage is deer resistant due to its aromatic foliage, making it a reliable choice in gardens where deer pressure is a concern.

Product Details:

• Native range: Eastern and Central North America
• Plant life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Dry to moist soils
• Mature height: 1-2 feet
• Bloom time: Spring to early summer (April to June)
• Bloom color: Light purple to lavender
• USDA Hardiness zones: 5-9

Lyreleaf Sage is an adaptable, low-maintenance plant that supports pollinators, provides medicinal value, and stabilizes soil. Its ability to thrive in difficult conditions makes it a valuable addition to any garden, meadow, or permaculture system.