Salvia (Sage)

Salvia is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae, along with culinary herbs like basil, rosemary, thyme, or lavender, and medicinal herbs such as catnip, and bee balm.

What is Salvia?

Diversity: Salvia includes over 900 species of plants, many of which are native to the Americas. This diversity means that there is a Sage plant for almost any garden situation, from full sun to partial shade and from moist to dry soils.

Growth habit: Salvia includes a wide variety of species with different growth habits and can be annuals, perennials, or shrubs. Plants vary widely in size, from low-growing ground covers to tall shrubs that can reach several feet in height. They have square stems and opposite leaves, and the flowers are typically arranged in spikes or clusters at the end of the stem.

Flowers: The flowers are often brightly colored, including blue, purple, pink, red, and white. Some species even have multicolored blooms or flowers that change color as they mature.

Leaves: Sage plants are also valued for their fragrant leaves, which are often used in traditional medicine and as culinary herbs. The leaves of Salvia officinalis (common sage) are typically dried and used as a seasoning for a variety of dishes, including meats, soups, and vegetables.

Blooming period: Sage plants typically bloom from late spring through summer and into fall, with some species continuing to produce flowers until the first frost.

Fragrance: The fragrance of Sage plants can vary widely depending on the species and cultivar. Some species, such as Salvia elegans (pineapple sage) and Salvia apiana (white sage), have a strong, sweet scent that is often used in aromatherapy and natural perfumes. Other species, such as Salvia officinalis (common sage), have a more pungent and savory scent and are often used as a seasoning in cooking.

Uses: Sage plants are versatile and can be used in a variety of garden situations, including mixed borders, rock gardens, and container plantings. Some species are also used for medicinal or culinary purposes.

Hardiness: The hardiness of Sage plants can vary depending on the species and cultivar. Some species, such as Salvia officinalis (common sage), are hardy in USDA zones 4-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C). Other species, such as Salvia splendens (scarlet sage), are tender perennials that are hardy in USDA zones 10-11 and may not survive temperatures below 30°F (-1°C). Most species fall somewhere in between, with hardiness ranging from USDA zones 5-10. It is important to choose a Salvia species that is appropriate for your climate and hardiness zone and to provide appropriate winter protection if necessary.

Medicinal properties: In addition to their ornamental and culinary uses, Salvia plants have been used for their medicinal properties for centuries. Many species contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties and are used to treat a variety of health conditions. Some species, such as Salvia miltiorrhiza (Chinese sage), are used in traditional Chinese medicine to improve cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.

Pollinators The brightly colored flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Deer/rabbit: The plants are generally not preferred by deer and rabbits.