Provence Art and Antiques
Purple Sage
Name
Botanical Name
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Family
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Native to
Water
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Sun
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Soil
Height
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Width
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Space
Purple Sage
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Salvia officinalis - S. o. Purpurascens Group
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Labiatae; Lamiaceae
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Southern Europe
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Dry to medium
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Full sun (part shade in hot climates)
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Light; well-drained soil
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12-24"
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12-18"
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16-18"
Price
4" pots: $2.20
6" pots: $3.50
1 Gallon Root Pouch: 5.00
Clay pots and planters: Prices vary
Description
Purple Sage is a highly aromatic, evergreen shrub that reaches around 2 feet in height. It has long, rough-textured, gray-green and purple leaves. It's strong flavor works well with fatty meats (lamb, pork, goose, etc.) and cheeses. It is also widely cultivated for it ornamental value.
Will Tolerate &
Keeping in Going
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Full sun - afternoon shade ok
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Water to establish, and then a few times a week (more in hot weather).
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Drought tolerant once established
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Prune sage in the Spring, or just after flowering. After a few years, sage tends to become straggly and needs to be replaced.
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Don't cut into old wood
Won't Tolerate
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Soil that is consistently moist, especially in cold weather. Adjust your water schedule accordingly during winter. Susceptible to root rot in these conditions
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The plant may not withstand winters in cold climates.
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Shade.
History
&
Points of Interest
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The botanical name, salvere, means to save or heal. This herb has always been associated with good health, long life, and even immortality.
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Sage is found in its native habitat growing on dry, sunny slopes.
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There are over 900 S. officinalis species worldwide
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As member of the mint family, it will attract bees and butterflies
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Tolerates deer, drought, dry soil, and shallow- rocky soil
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There are no serious insect problems
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Ideal for using in herb garden or vegetable gardens; or as a border and in rock gardens.
USES:
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Medicinal, Culinary and Aromatic/ Cosmetic
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Medicinal: Has astringent, antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
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Culinary: Leaves have a strong flavor and are used to flavor dishes - it works especially well with sausage, goose, lamb, pork, strong cheese, etc.
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Aromatic/ Cosmetic: An infusion of the leaves makes a rinse for dark hair and can be used to treat dandruff. The essential oils are used in the perfume and cosmetic industry.
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CAUTION: Sage, especially the essential oil, is toxic in excess doses (not the amount you would use in cooking). It should not be taken medicinally over long periods of time by pregnant women or epileptics (the thujone content may trigger fits).