Family: mint family (Lamiaceae)
Flowering time: June–August
Size: 30–60 cm
Habitat: dry meadows and pastures, along paths
A sturdy, erect stem of whorled sage (Salvia verticillata) is usually branched from the base. The stem is densely pubescent with short hairs, without glandular hairs and practically odorless. The basal leaves can overwinter, then dry out before flowering. The long-petioled lower leaves are clearly separated from the main leaf blade by two lobes. From 12 to 30 flowers are grouped into 4 to 10 dense flower spikes. The light violet or pink corolla is 10 to 15 mm long.
Whorled sage is a nectar-producing plant that thrives on moist, moderately rich soils in distinctly sunny locations on moderately warm sites. With the exception of Pomurje and the high mountains, it is widespread throughout Slovenia.
