Salvia officinalis (common sage) — Bushy

Overview

Salvia officinalis is a bushy herbs - culinary in the genus Salvia, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Salvia officinalis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH.

About

Salvia officinalis, common sage or sage, is a perennial, evergreen subshrub, with woody stems, grayish leaves, and blue to purplish flowers. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and native to the Mediterranean region, though it has been naturalized in many places throughout the world. It has a long history of culinary use, and in modern times it has been used as an ornamental garden plant. The common name "sage" is also used for closely related species and cultivars. It grows to around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, carrying evergreen foliage. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia officinalis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Salvia

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered

Plant details

Salvia officinalis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbs - Culinary, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 0.5-1 metres
Spread: 0.5-1 metres
Time to full height: 2-5 years

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Salvia officinalis?

Salvia officinalis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Salvia officinalis need?

Salvia officinalis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

How big does Salvia officinalis grow?

Salvia officinalis reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

More in the Salvia genus

Browse all Salvia →