Salvia divinorum is a naturally occurring hallucinogen, native to Mexico. Mazatec Indians have used salvia for centuries for spiritual divination, shamanism, and medical practices. Shamans brew a tea from the leaves and drink the vision-inducing mixture during religious ceremonies. The Mazatec also roll fresh salvia leaves into a cigar-like “quid.” They suck or chew the quid without swallowing, and so they absorb the drug from the mouth lining into the bloodstream. The plant is a member of the sage family.
We have high expectations our plants, and while some results may vary, salvias very rarely disappoint.
If it’s bold, vibrant colour you are after, coupled with a tough disposition, then these beauties are your answer. Out of the large Salvia family, three members are particularly noteworthy for the summer garden – Salvia splendens, S. farinacea and S. coccinea.