Some Common Plants of Upper Newport Bay

Black Sage  (Salvia mellifera)
Plant:  Perennial shrub 2 to 6 feet tall, openly branched  with dark green foliage.  Strongly scented when the vegetation is crushed.
Flowers: Many in whorls spaced 2 or 3 inches apart along the main stem, pale blue or whitish about 1/2 inch long.
Leaf:  Elliptical with rounded teeth, wrinkled, green, 3/4 to 1-1/4 inches long.
Flowering period:   April to July
Use by Indians:  Seeds were eaten, leaves used for flavoring and tea.
Can be found here: Bayview Nature Trail
Native Plant: Yes Halophyte: No
Family Name: Mint
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Date:  1/14/2010