Chia (Salvia hispanica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Chia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Chia
Salvia hispanica, commonly known as chia, is an annual herbaceous plant from the Lamiaceae family, primarily valued for its nutritious seeds. It produces spikes of small flowers, typically blue or purple, which are attractive to pollinators. It's ideal for vegetable gardens, pollinator gardens, or even in large pots in warm climates, adding a rustic and functional touch.
Native range
Mexico and Guatemala
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal development and good seed production. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. It prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Chia
- Warning signs
- Yellowish/brown leaves, general wilting, stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, repot to fresh, draining soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or extreme drought (especially during flowering/seeding).
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted or stem isn't irremediably dehydrated.