Salvia lyrata

Lyreleaf sage is an herbaceous perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae) native to the eastern and central United States. The plant forms a rosette. Each leaf is lobed like a lyre, hence the species epithet, which is Latin for “lyre-like.”

Plant in poor-to-average, medium-moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It tolerates heat and humidity, as well as drought, once established. Lyreleaf sage is moderately resistant to browsing by deer (they tend to eat the erect flower stalks but not the basal leaves).  Propagate by collecting seeds before seed capsules fully dry out. It reseeds easily in loose, sandy soil. 

Lavender flowers occur in rings around the stem from mid-spring to early summer, attracting butterflies and early-emerging bees. Some populations have pale pink flowers, while others have pale blue flowers. As the season progresses, the plants shift to producing cleistogamous flowers, which are flowers that never open but produce fertile fruits. The leaves in some populations (especially those from Florida and the Gulf Coast) are marked with a reddish blotch in the center. Cultivars with all-red foliage are available. American goldfinches will visit them for the seeds. Native bees nest in the dead, hollow stems, so gardeners are encouraged to cut back dead stems to 12 to 24 inches and allow them to remain standing until they disintegrate on their own. Read more about best practices for stem-nesting bees in this NC Extension publication.

Use this sage in a meadow, naturalized area, or woodland. Its dense form, short height, and tolerance for mowing make it an excellent lawn alternative. Plant it in a butterfly, drought-tolerant, native, or pollinator garden. Because it tolerates occasional flooding and wet soil, it makes a good addition to a rain garden. Fire Risk: This plant has a medium flammability rating. 

Insect, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems

VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens. 

More information on Salvia.