How to Grow Clary Sage
Salvia sclarea
Clary sage is a tall biennial (up to 120cm) with large velvety leaves and spectacular pink-purple flower spires in the second summer. Self-seeds prolifically once established. Very different from woody perennial common sage. Sow from late spring to midsummer, plant out in full sun with well-drained soil. It flowers in its second year then dies, but seedlings appear freely. Used in aromatherapy and perfumery.
In your Leaftide garden - Hardiness
- Hardy
- Season
- Any Season
- Harvest
- Continuous Harvest
- Spacing
- 45 cm
- Height
- 120 cm
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
- Start from
- Seed
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
When to Start
Sow from late spring to midsummer, in trays or where it is to flower. It only grows leaves in its first year and flowers the following spring or summer.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
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Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
Pet Safety
- When to Start
- Sow from late spring to midsummer, in trays or where it is to flower. It only grows leaves in its first year and flowers the following spring or summer.
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 45 cm |
| Row spacing | 45 cm |
| Mature height | 120 cm |
| Mature spread | 40 cm |
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Base growth temperature | 5°C |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Clary Sage?
- Plant Clary Sage 45cm apart with 45cm between rows.
- When does Clary Sage flower?
- Clary Sage flowers the year after sowing. It spends its first year growing leaves and flowers the following spring or summer.
- Is Clary Sage frost hardy?
- Clary Sage is classified as Hardy.