Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)

Clary sage

Also known as: Clary

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is a shrub that grows around the Mediterranean and in parts of central Asia. It has a long history of cultivation and has been imported to the Americas as well. It flowers with attractive blooms throughout the summer months, and its oil is used as a fragrance. It's also not unusual to find wines and liqueurs flavored with clary sage oils.

Scientific classification

Species

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper, Cream, Tan

Fruit Color

Pink, White, Purple, Cream, Blue, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Pink

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Clary sage

Distribution of Clary sage

Distribution Map

Clary sage is a plant that is native to the Mediterranean region, extending into Central Asia and parts of the Middle East. It has been introduced into parts of Central, Western, and Southern Europe, as well as distant locales including North Africa and Oceania. Clary sage has successfully adapted to various climates and is also cultivated in regions outside its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocky igneous slopes, mixed deciduous and coniferous woodland, shale banks, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Quickly Identify Clary sage

Large wrinkled leaves 8 inches to 1 foot (20 cm to 30 cm) in length.

Towering arrangement of pale-blue, lilac, or white flowers with prominent hood and lip.

Flower spikes reaching 3 to 4 feet (90 cm to 1.2 meters) above foliage.

Distinctive two-lipped flowers in white to lavender with mauve-pink bracts.

Schizocarp fruit splitting into four segments with small nutlets less than 0.2 inches (5 mm).

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Care Guide for Clary sage

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Clary sage, originating from the Mediterranean and Northern Africa, thrives in moderate humidity and exhibits drought tolerance. It requires balanced watering, ideally once a week, with moisture levels particularly important during the growing season to support its development and flowering.

Fertilize: Fertilize clary sage with balanced nutrition and high phosphorus during the growing season for healthy growth and blooms. Use a monthly application, adjusting for juvenile plants and seasonal dormancy. Protect against root burn and ensure even distribution for optimal results.

Pruning: Clary sage is a biennial aromatic plant with vibrant pink to blue flowers. Prune in early spring by removing dead stems and cutting flower spikes to enhance growth, airflow, and disease resistance, resulting in a healthier, more robust clary sage.

Propagation: Clary sage is a perennial herb with attractive foliage and aromatic flowers. Propagate by sowing seeds in well-draining soil, keeping it moist until germination. Provide full sun and adequate spacing for growth. Thin or transplant seedlings once they develop true leaves for strong plants.

Repotting: Clary sage is a mid-sized, bushy herb that should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring using a pot 2 inches larger. Use well-draining soil, water moderately, and monitor for stress to ensure healthy growth and aromatic foliage.

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Images of Clary sage

Distribution of Clary sage

Quickly Identify Clary sage

Care Guide for Clary sage

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