California
Noxious Weeds
Mediterranean Sage (Salvia aethiopis)
Mint Family (Lamiaceae)
Description: An aromatic biennial 2 to 3 feet. Leaves large, grayish, woolly, irregularly toothed, develop a rosette up to 2 feet in diameter in the first year. Plant bolts second season producing multi-branched stems with white to blue-green, woolly, felt-like leaves. Flowers two-lipped, usually yellowish-white, borne in clusters on profusely branched stems.
Habitat: Native to Europe. Occurs in pastures meadows, rangelands, and other open areas. One plant may produce thousands of seeds which are spread easily because the mature plant forms a "tumbleweed."
Distribution: The main infestation of Mediterranean sage is located around Lakeview, Oregon spreading south into Plumas County. Generally, the further south of Lakeview the more widespread and smaller the infestations which are scattered throughout northeastern California. However, there are beginnning to be some substantial infestations around Likely (Modoc County).
Flowering Period: June to August.
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