Sticky sage (Salvia glutinosa)

Sticky sage

Also known as: Yellow sage

Sticky sage grows naturally in woodlands and is cultivated as an ornamental plant, typically planted in gardens. It is one of the few salvias with yellow flowers. This herbaceous perennial is the primary food source for Macrotylus quadrilineatus, a plant bug. The plant's name, "Sticky sage," comes from the sticky hairs that cover the whole plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Sticky sage (Salvia glutinosa)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

1.2 m

Plant Height

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Sticky sage

Distribution of Sticky sage

Distribution Map

Sticky sage is naturally widespread across temperate regions of Europe and parts of Western Asia. It thrives in a range of wooded habitats within these areas. The species has been introduced and cultivated successfully in parts of Northern Europe, ensuring its presence beyond its native range. Although cultivation occurs, sticky sage remains largely consistent with its original distribution.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Scrub and moist places in deciduous forests

Weed Control

Sticky sage is a herbaceous perennial plant cultivated for its ornamental and medicinal value. However, it can display invasive behavior in certain areas and can quickly inhabit empty patches of soil.

How to Control It

If you plan on growing sticky sage in your ornamental garden, make sure to plant it at a place where it won't spread uncontrollably, for example in containers or raised beds. Trimming and removing stray seedlings can also effectively keep this plant in check. The roots of young plants are quite shallow, so they are easily uprooted manually. Already established, mature plants can be a bit more difficult to remove, as they have underground runners which can resprout after being damaged. If there are any leftover root fragments in the soil sticky sage will reemerge, which is why repeated removal is often necessary.

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Care Guide for Sticky sage

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sticky sage thrives in moist, well-drained soils with consistent humidity, requiring weekly watering for optimal growth. It is moderately drought-tolerant but needs enhanced moisture during its active growing season to support vigorous flowering, reflecting its origin from the understory of European woodlands.

Fertilize: Sticky sage benefits from a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer, applied quarterly during growth and biannually in dormancy. Use 1 tablespoon per square foot, water thoroughly afterward, and protect leaves from fertilizer to prevent damage, ensuring optimal health and bloom quality.

Pruning: Sticky sage, with its mucilaginous leaves and yellow flowers, thrives with early to late spring pruning. Focus on removing dead stems and thinning crowded areas for better airflow. Regular maintenance promotes bushier growth and prolongs flowering by removing spent blooms.

Propagation: Sticky sage, a Lamiaceae member, thrives from seeds sown in well-draining, organic-rich soil. Consistent moisture is essential during germination. Careful transplanting prevents root damage, while adequate light promotes strong growth in its final location.

Repotting: Repot sticky sage every 2-3 years in spring using a slightly larger container to promote root expansion. After repotting, ensure bright, indirect light and keep soil consistently moist. Handle its unique sticky leaves gently for optimal growth and recovery.

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Images of Sticky sage

Distribution of Sticky sage

Weed Control

Care Guide for Sticky sage

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Common Pests & Diseases