Growing Guides All guides
Sage

Herbs

Sage

Salvia officinalis

RHS Plants for Pollinators

As well as being aromatic and flavoursome, the leaves of this ornamental herb are drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for light soils in sunny spots. During summer, plants are topped by upright racemes of deep-blue, two-lipped flowers, that are loved by bees.

Position
Full Sun to Partial Sun
Height
60cm
Spread
50cm

Growing calendar

JFMAMJJASOND
Sow indoors
Sow outdoors
Flowering
Harvest

Sowing & growing

Sow under glass March-May in seed trays of moist seed compost. Cover the surface with a sprinkling of compost. Seed germinates at 15-20°C. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into individual pots and grow on in cool conditions. Acclimatise young plants before planting in well-draining soil, in a sheltered position. Alternatively sow where it is to grow in May, 2cm deep in short drills.

Aftercare

Cut back each year in mid Spring, mulch and feed. Harvest leaves as required.

Ref. SES001