Salvia lyrata, commonly known as Lyreleaf Sage or Cancer Weed, is a stunning wildflower that is native to the United States. This plant belongs to the mint family and has beautiful purple-blue blooms that bloom in the spring. It is a beautiful herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the eastern and central United States, including Texas, and grows well in full sun to partial shade. This plant produces lovely blue-purple flowers on spikes that bloom from March to June, which makes it a popular choice for gardeners who love to add color and texture to their gardens.
If you’re a gardener who enjoys incorporating wildflowers into your landscape, Salvia lyrata could be an excellent addition to your garden. This plant is hardy and can adapt to a variety of soil conditions, making it easy to maintain. It’s also drought-tolerant, which is a plus for those who live in regions with dry summers.
In This Article
Salvia lyrata Information
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Common Names | Lyreleaf Sage, Cancer Weed |
| Native to USA | AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, NY, OH, OK PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV |
| Size | Up to 5′ tall |
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, Salvia lyrata also has medicinal properties. It has been used to treat various ailments such as colds, coughs, and fever. Native American tribes used the plant to treat snake bites and even believed it had cancer-fighting properties, hence the common name “Cancer Weed.”
Overall, Salvia lyrata is a versatile and attractive plant that can add a unique touch to your garden. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate native plants into their landscape or are interested in natural remedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salvia lyrata edible?
Salvia lyrata is not commonly consumed as food.
Is Salvia lyrata an invasive species of plant?
Salvia lyrata is not considered an invasive species. However, it does have a tendency to self-seed and spread easily, which can lead to overcrowding and reduce biodiversity in your garden. To prevent this, deadhead the spent blooms to prevent the plant from reseeding. Additionally, it is advisable to keep the plant in check by pruning it regularly, especially if you have a smaller garden.