Salvia loxensis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Salvia loxensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in Ecuador's Andean regions, which has fragmented and destroyed much of its native cloud forest habitat. Mining activities and infrastructure development further threaten remaining populations, while climate change is shifting suitable habitat zones upslope, reducing available area for this high-altitude endemic.
Habitat
This endemic Ecuadorian sage inhabits cloud forests and montane scrublands at elevations between 2,800-3,500 meters in the Andes. It typically grows in moist, well-drained soils along forest edges and in clearings within the upper montane forest zone.