Common sage (Salvia officinalis) SAL-vee-ah oh-fi-shi-NAH-lis Genus:  Salvia Cooks and gardeners alike are indebted to this classic, evergreen perennial for the unique, pungent flavor and aroma that its gray-green leaves produce. It forms a 2.5-foot-tall by 3-foot-wide bush with woody stems that may be trimmed back to newly emerging growth or strong stems in spring. In early to mid-summer, it sends up lavender-purple flower spikes; it has both ornamental and culinary qualities in an herb garden. It tolerates alkaline soils, but not wet winter conditions. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Butterflies love salvia. Care:  Provide moist but well-drained soil in full sun. This species tolerates alkaline soil. Propagation:  Sow seed, or divide plants, in spring. Take cuttings spring through fall. Problems:  Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Fragrant Foliage, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Summer, Summer Flower Color Purple Foliage Color Evergreen Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Ground Covers, Naturalizing Style Cottage Garden, Herb Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Deer Tolerant, Drought Tolerant, Frost Tolerant Type Perennials