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Key characteristics

Family: Lamiaceae
Height: 18 to 24 in
Width: 18 to 24 in
Flower color: Lavender to pale violet on short, upright flower spikes
Foliage color: Soft gray-green, oval leaves with a lightly textured, velvety surface
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun
Water: Low to moderate
Maintenance: Low, trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 8
Wildlife: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Perennials

Salvia officinalis

Common Sage

Salvia officinalis forms softly textured mounds of silvery gray-green leaves with a distinctly aromatic character. In late spring to early summer, upright stems rise above the foliage carrying whorls of soft lavender to pale violet flowers that add a gentle wash of color above the leaves. The plant's evergreen habit in mild climates allows it to provide visual interest well beyond its flowering season, making it a steady presence in the garden.

Light

Full sun

Water

Low to moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Sun Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Waterwise Gardens
Containers

Companion plants

Asters · Catmint · Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm · Yarrow

Design tip

Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.