Lovely Lyre Leaf Sage

Lovely lyre leaf sage (Salvia lyrata) is popping up nicely along the eastern storm water retention. In the mint family Lamiaceae (Labiatae), the lyre leaf sage can be used in teas and for salad greens. Tolerant of growing in areas with partial shade to full sun; the foliage often takes on deep wine hues in greater light. Lyre leaf sage is easily recognized by its square stem characteristic of many plants in the mint family. Even when not in bloom this plant is readily identified by its rosette of deeply cut leaves shaped somewhat like the musical instrument the lyre for which it is named.