Common Sage
Salvia officinalis
Lamiaceae · perennial · introduced
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Common sage is an aromatic, edible, short-lived, bushy, spreading, semi-woody perennial subshrub in the mint family. Growing 1-2 feet tall, it has grayish, wrinkled, oval leaves and blue to purplish flowers. The plant is evergreen or semi-evergreen depending on climate and is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region.
Sage prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established. Hardy to zones 4a-8b, it is widely grown for culinary use and ornamental value. The leaves contain volatile oils that have been valued medicinally and historically for tanning and textile dyeing. Several cultivars and variegated selections are available.