The Salvia genus, commonly known as sage, is a vast group of plants prized by gardeners for their vibrant colors and tolerance for varied conditions. When landscaping in areas with wildlife, the question of whether deer will consume these plants is a frequent concern. Most Salvia varieties are generally recognized as deer-resistant due to their natural characteristics, but this resistance is not absolute, and deer may browse them under certain circumstances.
The General Resistance of Salvia
The vast majority of plants within the Salvia genus are categorized as “rarely damaged” by deer, offering a reliable option for gardens in high-pressure areas. Deer typically avoid these plants in favor of other, more palatable vegetation, such as tender grasses or young shoots. This avoidance behavior is based on the plant’s built-in defense mechanisms.
No plant is completely “deer-proof.” The term “deer-resistant” means the plant is less appealing to deer than most alternatives. During periods of scarcity, such as a harsh winter or drought, or in areas with high deer populations, a hungry deer may temporarily override its natural aversion and consume the foliage.
Factors That Determine Deer Palatability
The primary reason deer tend to avoid Salvia plants lies in the presence of strong, defensive chemical compounds within the foliage. These plants produce essential oils rich in volatile organic compounds, such as terpenoids like camphor and cineole. When a deer bites the plant, these oils are released, creating a pungent, highly aromatic scent and a bitter taste that many herbivores find repulsive.
This chemical defense mechanism irritates the deer’s nasal passages and digestive system. Beyond the strong odor, the physical characteristics of the leaves also act as a deterrent. Many resistant varieties feature fuzzy, hairy, or rough leaf textures, known as pubescence, which deer find unpleasant to chew. The combination of bitter flavor and rough mouthfeel makes Salvia a low-priority food source.
Specific Salvia Varieties and Deer Preference
The level of resistance is not uniform across the entire genus, as the concentration of defensive oils varies by species. Highly resistant perennial varieties are generally the best choice for a deer-challenged garden. Common examples include culinary sage (Salvia officinalis), which has a particularly potent aroma, and Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii). Other reliable choices are Meadow Sage (Salvia nemorosa) and Anise-scented Sage (Salvia guaranitica).
Conversely, deer are occasionally observed browsing on annual Salvia varieties, particularly those with less pungent foliage. The most commonly browsed exception is the tender annual variety, Scarlet Sage (Salvia splendens). Young Salvia plants with soft, new growth are more vulnerable to sampling than mature specimens.
Management and Deterrent Strategies
If deer pressure is exceptionally high, gardeners can employ external strategies to safeguard the plants. One reliable method is the use of physical barriers, such as fencing or netting, to block access to vulnerable plantings. Fencing should be at least six to eight feet tall to prevent deer from jumping over it.
Another option is the application of chemical deer deterrents, which are spray solutions formulated to repel deer through an offensive scent or taste. These sprays should be reapplied regularly, especially after heavy rain. Avoid applying these products to edible Salvia varieties, like culinary sage, as they can ruin the taste. Strategic placement of highly aromatic, resistant Salvia varieties near other, more vulnerable plants can also create a scent barrier that deters browsing in a localized area.