Soft, grey-green velvety leaves on a hardy Mediterranean sub-shrub — the classic partner for pork, stuffing and butter sauces. Drought-tolerant and quietly handsome.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 60 cm tall
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Common Sage
Botanically, Salvia officinalis is a moderate-growing edible plant in the Lamiaceae family. It reaches around 60 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen and aromatic foliage.
Where to grow Common Sage
Common Sage suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Common Sage does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Common Sage performs well with relatively little water once established. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Common Sage in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Common Sage in the garden
Common Sage earns its place for edible harvests, pots and courtyard containers, feeding bees and pollinators and its fragrance. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Common Sage with plants that share its preference for happy on low water and Mediterranean climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Common Sage
Plant Sale lists Common Sage as potted plants and seed. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Common Sage seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
