About Salvia lyrata L.
Salvia lyrata L. produces a basal rosette of leaves. Individual leaves reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) long, and broaden toward their tip. Leaves have irregular margins, and are typically pinnately lobed or cut, giving them an appearance somewhat similar to a lyre. The central leaf vein is sometimes colored a dark wine-purple. A square-shaped hairy stem grows from the rosette, reaching up to 2 feet (0.61 m) in length. This stem bears uneven whorls of two-lipped flowers that range in color from lavender to blue. Flowering is heaviest between April and June, though sparse flowering can occur throughout the year. People once believed the leaves of this species could act as an external cure for cancer, which gave rise to one of its common names, "Cancerweed". This species grows in full sun or light to medium shade. Native populations of Salvia lyrata L. occur naturally on roadsides, in fields, and in open woodlands. Salvia lyrata L. is sometimes grown in gardens for its attractive foliage and flowers. It produces prolific amounts of seed, however, and can easily spread into lawns. Because it can thrive even when mowed and walked on, it can be used as an alternative to turf grass, and is attractive to bees. Several cultivars of this species have been developed that produce purple leaves. 'Burgundy Bliss' and 'Purple Knockout' are two cultivars with burgundy leaves that have a deeper color than the leaves of the wild species. Historically, Native Americans used the root of this plant as a salve for sores, and prepared a tea from the whole plant to treat colds and coughs.
