Common Sage (Salvia officinalis): Classic Culinary & Ornamental Herb

Common Sage: The Quintessential Herb Garden Perennial

Salvia officinalis is a classic evergreen perennial prized by cooks and gardeners alike for its unique, pungent flavor and aroma from gray-green leaves. It forms a 2.5-foot-tall by 3-foot-wide bush with woody stems. In early to mid-summer, lavender-purple flower spikes appear, adding ornamental value. Tolerates alkaline soils but not wet winter conditions.

Dual-Purpose Excellence

• Culinary staple: pungent, aromatic gray-green leaves
• Ornamental: lavender-purple summer flower spikes
• Evergreen, woody-based shrub (2.5 × 3 ft.)
• Tolerates alkaline soil
• Deer, drought, and frost tolerant
• Attracts butterflies

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun only
• Soil: Moist but well-drained; tolerates alkaline
• Water: Dry to medium
• Maintenance: Low; trim woody stems to new growth in spring

Propagation

Sow seed or divide in spring; take cuttings spring through fall.

Potential Problems

Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.

Quick Reference

Height/Spread:	1–3 ft.
Bloom Time:	Early summer, summer
Flower Color:	Purple
Foliage:	Evergreen, gray-green
Tolerances:	Deer, drought, frost
Uses:	Herb gardens, borders, containers, cut/dried flowers, groundcover, naturalizing