How to Identify Salvia Divinorum Plants
Salvia divinorum is native to the small Oaxaca region of Mexico. It was used for divination and spiritual ceremonies by the native culture. The plant remains widely used as a hallucinogen. Distinct characteristics allow you to distinguish the plant from common garden herbs. While you may identify large or flowering plants by visual inspection, a smaller plant may require additional effort. Recognize a Salvia divinorum plant by taking a close look at its leaves, flowers and stem.
Measure or estimate the height of the plant in question. Salvia divinorum grows to be over 3 feet tall and sprouts a healthy supply of broad, oval leaves. The main stalk of the plant shoots straight up from the ground.
- Salvia divinorum is native to the small Oaxaca region of Mexico.
- Salvia divinorum grows to be over 3 feet tall and sprouts a healthy supply of broad, oval leaves.
Gather a portion of the plant's stem and gently break it in half. Look at the shape of the stem's cross-section, which should resemble a square rather than a circle. Stems of Salvia divinorum plants are always hollow.
Look at the flowers if the plant is in bloom. Salvia divinorum does not flower often, but it does occasionally produce spears of white and violet flowers. The flower-bearing stems shoot far above the plant's natural foliage.
Feel the leaves of the plant with your fingers. They should be firm and crinkly, much like lettuce leaves. The leaves are several inches wide and up to 5 or 6 inches long. The jagged, oval-shaped leaves grow on alternating sides of the plant's stems.
- Gather a portion of the plant's stem and gently break it in half.
- The flower-bearing stems shoot far above the plant's natural foliage.
Grow Salvia Divinorum
Growing your own Salvia divinorum has endless benefits, but I won't go into that. Decide to use a Salvia cutting. You must get a Salvia cutting. Check the Resourses listed at the bottom of this article for where to buy fresh Salvia cuttings online. Put each cutting into a glass of water. Make sure to water the Salvia, with the soil completely moist. Again, you need to keep your Salvia buddy inside for two to three weeks so they'll grow some solid rooting in the pots before being exposed to all kinds of weather craziness outside. You need to keep your Salvia plant in a moist environment for a few days after you put them in the pot. You do this with a humidity tent. Put a clear plastic bag over your Salvia cutting.
- Growing your own Salvia divinorum has endless benefits, but I won't go into that.
- Put a clear plastic bag over your Salvia cutting.
Tip
Salvia divinorum is an herb and a close relative of other common American plants, including sage.
Warning
Some states and nations prohibit the distribution or propagating of Salvia Divinorum plants. Be sure to check the legality of this plant before handling or moving it.
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Writer Bio
Quentin Coleman has written for various publications, including All Pet News and Safe to Work Australia. He spent more tan 10 years nursing kittens, treating sick animals and domesticating semi-feral cats for a local animal shelter. He graduated from the University of Delaware with a bachelor's degree in journalism.
