Common Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) Responses to Salinity and Drought Stresses in Isfahan

Common sage (Salvia officinalis) is an ornamental and medicinal plant grown in Iran. Adaptation and salt and drought tolerances of this species were determined in a field in Isfahan, Iran for three years (2010-2012). Treatments were five irrigation levels (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days intervals) and five salinity levels (2, 4, 8, 12 and 16 dS m-1). Color, survival rate, plant height, freshness, number and longevity of flowers and burning percentage were measured. Salinity had no detrimental effects even at the highest NaCl levels. Plants also survived under drought levels up to 4th irrigation levels and maintained their quality. The results suggested that common sage is a drought and salt tolerant species and can be used as an ornamental or medicinal plant under both saline and drought conditions.