Salvia officinalis
Sage
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Salvia officinalis.
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Well-drained, Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
Neutral Alkaline
Full sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Flowers, Condiment, Tea
Essential oil, Repellent, Ground cover, Fragrant
Description
Leaves and flowers can be eaten both raw and cooked. This herb, with strongly aromatic leaves, is often used as a flavoring in cooked dishes. It helps with digestion and is therefore often combined with heavy, fatty foods. It gives a sausage-like flavor to savory dishes. The young leaves and flowers are suitable for raw consumption, cooking, pickling, or as an addition to sandwiches. The flowers can also be sprinkled over salads to add color and fragrance. An herbal tea made from fresh or dried leaves is said to promote digestion. An essential oil from this plant is commercially used to flavor ice cream, candy, pastries, and other products.