Salvia elegans “Golden Delicious”

Pineapple Sage
Salvia elegans
Type: Herbaceous Perennial
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular

Forming a clump as large as 3ft (90cm) high and wide, this native of Mexico is prized for its fragrant, chartreuse foliage. As the name suggests, the soft, slightly hairy leaves give off the scent of pineapple when brushed or bruised, and are arranged opposite each other on square stems. And just when you think it can’t get any better, bright, two-lipped red blooms that contrast well with the foliage appear in terminal spikes in September and October. (The ones in the photos aren’t quite open yet.) This bright herb will bring a splash of color to mixed borders or cottage garden settings as well as provide a welcome addition to any herb garden. They also work well in containers.

Fun Fact: The leaves can be used in salads or in hot or cold teas, and the flowers, also edible, can be used  as a garnish in salads, fruit or otherwise. Butterflies and hummingbirds like the flowers, too.

Cheers,

John