Clary Sage

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is a tall, showy biennial or short-lived perennial with large, textured leaves and impressive spikes of pink, lavender, or white bracted flowers — grown today mostly for its ornamental impact and use in perfumery rather than as a kitchen herb.

Growing Clary Sage

Clary sage prefers the same lean, well-drained conditions as garden sage and is quite drought-tolerant once established, growing into an architecturally striking plant that draws attention in a border even from a distance. It typically flowers in its second year and self-seeds readily, often naturalizing in gardens where it's happy.

Traditional Uses

Clary sage's essential oil is a staple of aromatherapy and perfumery, valued for its warm, herbaceous, slightly floral scent. Historically its seeds were also used to help clarify wine and beer — hence the "clary" name, thought to derive from "clear eye" for another old folk use involving the mucilaginous seed coat.