'Icterina' Golden Variegated Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Icterina'): Colorful Foliage & Flavor

'Icterina' Sage: Golden-Variegated Foliage with Classic Sage Flavor

Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' is a charming cultivar with green leaves edged in irregular yellow margins, forming a 1.5–2 foot tall and wide bush. It occasionally sends up lavender-purple flower spikes in early to mid-summer. Combines ornamental foliage appeal with the classic pungent sage flavor. Tolerates alkaline soils but not wet winter conditions.

Ornamental & Culinary Appeal

• Green leaves with irregular yellow margins—bright foliage accent
• Compact habit (1.5–2 ft. tall and wide)
• Classic sage flavor and aroma
• Lavender-purple flower spikes (occasional)
• Deer, drought, frost tolerant
• Attracts butterflies

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun only
• Soil: Moist but well-drained; tolerates alkaline
• Water: Dry to medium
• Maintenance: Low

Propagation

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:	Variegated green/yellow
Tolerances:	Deer, drought, frost
Uses:	Herb gardens, borders, cut/dried flowers, groundcover, rock gardens