Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) is a striking biennial perennial admired for its tall flower spikes and showy pink-purple bracts that glow in the summer sun. Its strong vertical shape and aromatic foliage bring height, color, and texture to cottage gardens, borders, and meadow plantings. A favorite of pollinators, Clary Sage thrives in dry, sunny soils and looks stunning in naturalistic landscapes, adding drama and movement with its towering blooms.
Features
- Showy pink-purple bracts on dramatic tall flower stalks.
- Aromatic foliage and flowers attract bees and butterflies.
- Excellent for dry, sunny, low-maintenance gardens.
- Strong vertical accent for borders and cottage landscapes.
- Grows as a biennial (leaf rosette first year, flowers second year).
- Non-GMO Salvia sclarea heirloom seed variety.
Specifications
- Common Name: Clary Sage
- Scientific Name: Salvia sclarea
- Plant Type: Biennial (flowers second year; may self-seed)
- USDA Zones: 5–9
- Bloom Color: Pink-purple bracts with white-lavender flowers
- Bloom Season: Early to mid-summer
- Height: 36–60 inches
- Spread: 18–30 inches
- Growth Habit: Rosette year one; tall branching flower spikes year two
- Foliage: Large, textured, aromatic green leaves
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, average to dry soil
- Water Needs: Low once established
- Drought Tolerance: High
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes (bees, butterflies)
- Maintenance Level: Low
- Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches
- Seed Viability: 1–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
- Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct sow in fall/spring.
- Press seeds onto soil surface or cover very lightly (1/16 inch).
- Keep soil lightly moist until germination (10–20 days).
- Provide full sun and good airflow for seedlings.
- Transplant outdoors after frost into well-drained soil.
- Water moderately during establishment; reduce watering once mature.
- Expect foliage rosette first year; flowering spikes second year.
- Remove spent flower stalks or leave seedheads for reseeding.
- Allow natural reseeding for continuous garden displays.
