Clary sage forms a ground-hugging rosette of large, fuzzy silver-grey leaves, followed in the second year by upright stalks carrying purple and white flowers. The biennial herb suits culinary, ornamental, medicinal and cut-flower gardens, and its blooms attract bees and beneficial insects.
Sow the seeds ¼ inch deep indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost or directly outdoors after frost. Plant in full sun and average to fertile, well-drained soil. Harvest fresh or dried sprigs once the stems reach 10–12 inches; established plants tolerate drought and may self-sow.
Features
Silver-grey fuzzy foliage
Purple and white flowers
Attracts bees and beneficial insects
Drought-tolerant once established
Deer resistant
Light: Full sun
Spacing: 12 inches
Plant type: Biennial
Seed depth: ¼ inch
Germination: 10–14 days
Plant width: 12–18 inches
Plant height: 36 inches
Botanical name: Salvia sclarea
Flowering time: Second year, early summer
Hardiness zones: 6–9
Seeds per packet: 50
Shipping restriction: Cannot ship to Washington State
