Clary Sage
salvia viridis
Also known as: ["Annual Clary","Garden Clary"]
Overview
A hardy annual herb with striking blue or purple bracts and aromatic foliage, often used in ornamental and culinary gardens.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Salvia |
| Botanical Name: | Salvia viridis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in full sun exposure
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or overgrown stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize lightly; stop in dormant periods; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; sow seeds in spring after last frost.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead regularly; trim back stems by one-third if overgrown.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; deadhead spent blooms; trim leggy stems; discard debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSalvia viridis is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSalvia viridis is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSalvia viridis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with its consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salvia viridis edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and bracts are edible and can be used in salads or as garnishes.
Q: How often should I water Salvia viridis?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Salvia viridis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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