Growing the Hallucinogens

by
Hudson Grubber
SALVIA DIVINORUM
"Pipiltzintzintli"
Mint family (Labiatae)
A woody perenial herb 4 to 6 feet tall with square, hollows stems. The
leaves are dark green, 6 to 8 inches long, with toothed edges. The flowers
are blue or white on spikes. Only found in cultivated by sorcerers in an
isolated area in southern Mexico.
Cultivation and Propagation
Is is propagated in much the same manner as coleus. It needs a loose, rich
soil. Is is best grown as a tub plant and brought indoors when the weather
begins to cool. It may be grown outdoors in frost-free areas. This salvia
is generally grown from cuttings, but I know of one instance in which it was
grown from seed. The seed should be germinated in the same way as coleus.
Cuttings should be taken in spring, after the plant has had alot of sun.
Cut 1/2-inch below a node and root in no more than an inch of water. A
pinch of rootone may be added to the water and shaken to dissolve it. This
will help prevent stem rot and will stimulate rooting. When the roots are
1/4-inch long the cutting should be potted. Longer roots may be damaged.
Plant in a 2-inch pot with good potting soil. Grows rapidly after the roots
are established. I have found that this plant is susceptible to stem rot if
over-watered. It is often attacked by aphids, white flies, spider mites and
mealy bugs.
Harvesting
Harvesting the leaves for use as a hallucinogen should not be attempted
until one has at least four one-year-old plants. An equal number of leaves
should be harvested from each plant so that the shock to one plant will not
be great. Dosage may vary; begin with 10-20 fresh leaves. fresh leaves are
used, as the active principle is believed to be unstable. Considering the
rarity of the plant, the leaves should be chewed, because when the juices
are expressed much of the active principle is wasted.