@chris209 (LI, NY Z7a)

Hi, Chris. I was searching for photos of your irises and came across this Perennials Forum post of yours from 10 months ago. I see that you are still awaiting replies. I wish I could share a definitive answer, but I just have thoughts.

What kind of salvia is this? My first thought is that the color pattern looks like variegation or disease, although I know of only two variegated salvias, Savia officinalis ‘Icterina’ and Salvia splendens. The leaves on your plant resemble Salvia officinalis but the mottled variegation does not resemble Icterina’s. The variegation resembles S splendens. Hmmm. If it is a virus, there might be reasons for the similarity.

I have seen odd, rare and likely virus-induced variegation in a whole variety of plants, including weeds. Some of the viruses have produced foliage patterns not unlike yours. I currently grow a “variegated” Sweet Autumn Clematis with a fairly high percentage of streaked green and white leaves among the solid green ones. The virus may be stunting the growth a bit, but who can tell with vigorously enormous Sweet Autumn Clematis? My plant just keeps powering on like so many roses with Rose Mosaic Virus.

It is my understanding that there is also a mosaic virus in salvias that is reproduced through propagation and that variegated ornamental salvias my actually carry some component of the virus? One article talking about this refers to a clerodendrum virus. I’ll attach the link discussing this below. There’s probably more info out there on the internet, too. If your plant is virused, it may also be slower growing and smaller than average which is why you see stunting, but unless it regresses, I’d call it a new ornamental variety and enjoy the rare variegation. As far as I know, the infection is no more contagious than RMV, so unless you’re propagating and want plants sans variegation….

I hope you are having a lovely and spring and are safe and well! I hear John is sending you a start of Umbra. Yay! Mine survived the winter and is pushing a leaf bud. 🎉 Bless John for propagating and passing along this almost extinct Barden rose! I think he even sent a start to Paul. I am SO looking forward to photos of your breathtaking garden in bloom if you get a chance to share some pics this year! I may be dropping you an iris question at some point. I am planting some exciting arrivals from Old House Gardens.

Carol

Mosaic Virus Link

@portlandmysteryrose

Hi Carol! Thank you for the very interesting information. This is a salvia nemorosa variety, possibly Cardonna. It does look like a kind of mosaic virus. I'll have to look into it more.

I'm so excited about getting umbra. It is so extremely thoughtful and sweet of you and John for thinking of me. I will definately post pictures. The garden is just starting to wake up. Happy spring!

@chris209 (LI, NY Z7a)

Happy spring, Chris! Carol