Salvia officinalis

Common sage is an aromatic, edible, short-lived, bushy, spreading, semi-woody perennial shrub. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). The plant is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in shrublands or grasslands on hillsides and mountains. The species epithet, officinalis, references the plant's medicinal use and was sold in herb stores or pharmacies.

Common sage prefers full sun and well-drained, medium to dry soils that mimic those of its Mediterranean homeland. It is intolerant of wet or poorly drained soils. It will tolerate drought and poor soils. The species can grow up to 2 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. Many cultivars may be shorter. Pruning is recommended in the spring and during the growing season to keep the plant from becoming leggy and to control flowering when used as a culinary herb. Do not prune into mature woody stems, as these seldom sprout new growth. Tall plants may require staking.

For many centuries in Europe, common sage was used both for culinary and medicinal purposes. Romans used common sage as a sacred ceremonial herb. The leaves of common sage may be used fresh, dried or cooked. They are very aromatic. The leaves may be harvested in the spring and summer. For new plantings, it is best to harvest lightly the first year. The plant needs to become established before more aggressive harvesting. The edible flowers have an herbal, musky flavor and should not be eaten in large amounts. Fresh sage sold in supermarkets is often the similar species, Greek sage (Salvia fruticosa), which has trifoliolate leaves at maturity. The leaves of common sage are always simple. The flowers may be bluish-lavender to pinkish-lavender and appear on upright spikes in the early summer. The flowers attract butterflies and bees.

This plant is excellent for herb or vegetable gardens (but avoid the ornamental cultivars, as they may have suboptimal flavor). It may also be mixed with perennials in border plantings, cottage gardens, or rock gardens. Several cultivars are available in many leaf colors that contrast nicely with other brighter green plants in the landscape. Common sage is perfect for many gardens and offers great texture and sensory encounters with its furry, highly scented, grayish-green leaves. 

Quick ID Hints:

• bushy, spreading, semi-woody, short-lived, evergreen, perennial shrub
• square green stems when young, becoming woody with age
• aromatic grayish green, fuzzy, textured, ovate, opposite, simple leaves with entire margins
• erect spikes bearing whorls of two-lipped, bluish-lavender flowers

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Possible insects include leaf hoppers, slugs, spider mites, and spittlebugs. Root rot, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt can occur. Providing well-drained soil and good air circulation will reduce the possibility of pests and foliar diseases. 

VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Vegetables, Herbs, Fruits, and Nuts," a plant identification course developed in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Salvia.