Russia's harsh penalties for growing Salvia divinorum explained
Russia has strict laws against growing Salvia divinorum, a plant classified as containing narcotic substances. The penalties vary depending on the number of plants cultivated, with both administrative and criminal consequences in place. Under Russian law, individuals caught growing up to 10 Salvia divinorum plants face administrative fines. These range from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles, or detention for up to 15 days. Legal entities, such as businesses, can be fined between 100,000 and 300,000 rubles for the same offence.
Criminal charges apply when more than 10 plants are cultivated. Offenders may receive fines of up to 300,000 rubles, mandatory community service for up to 480 hours, or imprisonment for up to two years. For cases involving an 'especially large amount'—defined as over 100 plants—or organised groups, the prison sentence can extend to eight years. The ban in Russia aligns with restrictions in many other countries. Germany outlawed *Salvia divinorum* in 2008, while Switzerland followed in 2010. Austria, however, imposes no specific regulations, and in the US, it remains legal at the federal level but is banned in some states. Russian authorities stress that the law targets only specific species listed as narcotic, not sage in general.
The Russian government maintains a firm stance on Salvia divinorum, enforcing penalties that escalate with the scale of cultivation. Those found growing the plant face either administrative fines or criminal prosecution, depending on the quantity involved.
