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Salvia - Clary Sage
Seed Packet

Salvia - Clary Sage

Salvia sclarea v. turkestanica
A dramatic focal point of early summer gardens, biennial clary sage has large quilted leaves, and tall, multi-branched spikes of pink flowers encased in showy, long-lasting violet bracts. A sinus-clearing scent of grapefruit and pine rises from the bruised leaves and flowers. Herbal apothecaries supplied clary as an eyewash, or "clear eye," and amazingly, both cosmetic formulations and muscatel wines found it an essential ingredient. Beautiful in combination with oriental poppies in the early summer garden. Listed in an 1827 catalog. Self-sows. Sorry, cannot ship to WA.
SKU #S091
$4.00
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
64
Lifecycle
Biennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
5,
6,
7,
8,
9
Mature Size
4-5' h x 2.5' w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Regular, moist, well-drained
Season
Spring to summer
Color
Pale purple with rose or purple bracts
Features
Scented Leaves
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Hummingbirds
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Surface sow or lightly cover.
Sprout Time:
7-14 days.
Starting Indoors:
Start in well-drained germinating mix 6-8 weeks before last frost. Keep at 65-75°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow after last frost.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Clary sage is a statuesque inhabitant of cottage gardens. A biennial, in the second year of growth it sends up an entire floral framework filled with tiny flowers surrounded by large colorful bracts, providing a long-lasting display accompanied by the zesty scent of grapefruit. Companion to frilly-headed poppies and bronze fennel, it has staked its claim to the cottage garden since the 1600s. Easy to grow if provided with well-drained soils, especially valuable for winter survival.
Final Spacing:
2-2.5'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
About 1" per week.
Soil pH:
Not particular about pH
Fertilizer:
Do not overfertilize. If soil is poor, mix about 2" of compost into the soil prior to planting and topdress the following spring.
Diseases & Pests:
Prevent powdery mildew by spacing plants apart for increased air circulation. Aphids can be washed off leaves with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap applications.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
When about 1/2 of florets have opened