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By Cassidy Smith
Head of Marketing & PR
As we explore the world of gardening, it’s not just about cultivating plants; it’s about nurturing a connection with the Earth and discovering the beauty that nature has to offer. In a recent conversation with Jeremy Schmidt, the Director of Horticulture at Bellingrath Gardens & Home, we delved into his passion for gardening and a particular perennial plant that has captured his heart: Salvia leucantha, commonly known as Mexican bush sage.
Jeremy’s Love for Gardening:
Jeremy is no stranger to the world of horticulture. He has spent years honing his skills and deepening his love for plants. When asked about his journey as a gardener, he shared, “As I grow as a gardener (and vice versa), I consciously seek out perennial plants that are firing off their best floral show while most other perennials are re-loading for another season.”
Salvia leucantha: A Seasonal Marvel:
Jeremy’s affection for Salvia leucantha was sparked during his gardening days in Raleigh, North Carolina. He fondly reminisces, “I first fell in love with Salvia leucantha while gardening in Raleigh, NC.” But what makes this plant so special? Jeremy’s enthusiasm is infectious as he explains, “Because S. leucantha blooms right now!”
As autumn approaches, the garden comes alive with the sight of Salvia leucantha’s “delightfully fuzzy purple flowers.” These blooms serve as a joyful harbinger of fall, signaling the end of a scorching summer in south Alabama. Jeremy notes, “Its delightfully fuzzy purple flowers are a welcome harbinger of fall (or at least proof of the end of one of the hottest south Alabama summers in memory).”
Discovering Salvia leucantha at Bellingrath:
For those eager to witness the magic of Salvia leucantha, Bellingrath Gardens & Home is the place to be. Jeremy shares, “From now through the Bellingrath Gardens & Home chrysanthemum festival, you’ll find this heat and drought-tolerant easy-to-grow Mexican native mint relative lining the great lawn.” The garden becomes adorned with the beauty of this unique plant, creating a visual spectacle that’s not to be missed. And for those who wish to bring a piece of this perennial wonder into their own gardens, Jeremy suggests exploring the atrium, which may have it “quite possibly for sale.”
Cultivating a Connection with Nature:
Jeremy’s words resonate with all garden enthusiasts, reminding us of the profound bond we share with the Earth through our gardens. He aptly states, “In the world of gardening, it’s these little discoveries, like Salvia leucantha, that remind us of the profound connection between us and the Earth.”
As we tend to our gardens and cherish the beauty they bring into our lives, let’s keep our hearts and eyes open for those plants that bloom against the odds, infusing our outdoor sanctuaries with unexpected beauty.
In the words of Jeremy Schmidt, “Each plant we cultivate not only beautifies our surroundings but also enriches our lives.” So, let’s continue to cultivate the Earth for all it’s worth, finding inspiration and wonder in every petal and leaf. Happy gardening!