Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' (Variegated Sage) — Bushy

Overview

Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' is a bushy perennial subshrub in the genus Salvia, part of the Lamiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.6 m tall and 0.75 m wide. Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and 6.0-7.0 pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include herb garden, borders and container planting. It is native to Mediterranean region.

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.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia officinalis

About the genus

Salvia is the largest genus of plants in the sage family Lamiaceae, with just under 1,000 species of shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and annuals. Within the Lamiaceae, Salvia is part of the tribe Mentheae within the subfamily Nepetoideae. One of several genera commonly referred to as sage, it includes two widely used herbs, Salvia officinalis and Salvia rosmarinus.

Wikipedia contributors, "Salvia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Salvia

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy
Soil pH: 6.0-7.0
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Perennial subshrub
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 0.6 m
Spread: 0.75 m
Suggested uses: Herb garden, borders, container planting
Native to: Mediterranean region
Fragrance: Aromatic, slightly camphoraceous

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Salvia officinalis 'Icterina'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, protect from harsh winter winds
Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
Propagation: Cuttings, division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Honey fungus, Powdery mildews, Verticillium wilt, Foot and root rots

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Salvia officinalis 'Icterina'?

Prefers well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, protect from harsh winter winds.

Where is the best place to plant Salvia officinalis 'Icterina'?

Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' need?

Salvia officinalis 'Icterina' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers 6.0-7.0 soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.