Lyre-leaved Sage (Salvia lyrata)

Description

Lyre-leaved Sage (Salvia lyrata) is a perennial herb native to eastern North America. It features distinctive lyre-shaped leaves and produces spikes of tubular, lavender-blue flowers from late spring to early summer. This plant thrives in a variety of habitats, including meadows, open woods, and roadsides, and is known for its hardiness and ability to attract pollinators. Its leaves can also exhibit a unique purple hue, adding ornamental value to gardens. Salvia lyrata is often used in naturalized plantings and ecological restorations for its low maintenance and adaptability.

This highly adaptable native perennial is a host plant for eight species of Lepidoptera larvae, including wavy-lined emerald moths and hermit sphinx moths. It also attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its flowers, which provide the perfect landing strip for pollinators! The basal leaves are semi-evergreen and we have personally found them to stay green year-round here in Lancaster County. It makes a lovely ground cover or “green mulch”, adding interest with its purple veined leaves.