Clary Sage
Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) is a fascinating plant with a rich history, aromatic foliage, and multiple uses that have made it a favorite in gardens, kitchens, and even the perfume industry. Clary Sage is a hardy biennial or short-lived perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae).
Rich History: Native to the Mediterranean, North Africa, and parts of Central Asia, Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) has been valued for centuries for its medicinal, aromatic, and culinary uses.
Aromatic Excellence: Known for its musky, sweet fragrance, Clary Sage essential oil is used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and skincare for its calming and balancing properties.
Historical Medicinal Use: Called “clear eye” in historical medicine, its seeds were used to create a soothing mucilaginous substance for eye irritation.
Striking Blooms: Clary Sage produces tall spikes of pink, purple, or blue flowers surrounded by colorful bracts, making it a visually stunning plant in gardens.
Pollinator Magnet: The flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting biodiversity in pollinator-friendly gardens.
Culinary Applications: Its leaves and flowers are sometimes used sparingly to flavor herbal teas, liqueurs, and wines or fried as a garnish in savory dishes.
Low Maintenance: Drought-tolerant and well-suited for well-drained soil and full sun, Clary Sage thrives in Mediterranean-style and xeriscape gardens.
Versatile Garden Use: Clary Sage is ideal for herb borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator landscapes due to its beauty, fragrance, and resilience.
