Salvia sclarea
TAXONOMY
FamilyLamiaceae
GenusSalvia
Zone5
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Salvia sclarea, commonly known as clary sage, is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb in the family Lamiaceae. Native to the Mediterranean Basin, it is known for its aromatic leaves and colorful bracts. Clary sage is often grown for its essential oil, which is used in aromatherapy and perfumery. The plant typically enters a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Clary Sage
Aethiopis sclarea
Salvia altilabrosa
Salvia calostachya
Salvia coarctata
Salvia haematodes
Salvia lucana
Salvia pamirica
Salvia sclarea var. calostachya
Salvia sclarea var. turkestanica
Salvia simsiana
Salvia turkestanica
Sclarea vulgaris
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Clary sage prefers full sun and moderate temperatures. It thrives in well-drained soil and should be watered when the soil is almost dry. The plant benefits from moderate humidity and should be protected from extreme cold. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.Soil
Clary sage grows best in well-drained loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers soil that is not too rich in nutrients. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10 can be applied during the growing season. Fertilize sparingly, as too much nitrogen can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.Repotting
If growing clary sage in a container, repotting may be necessary every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repot in the spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Clary sage can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Sow seeds in the spring or take cuttings in late spring to early summer. Ensure the cuttings have a few sets of leaves and plant them in well-draining soil.Pruning
Prune clary sage after flowering to remove spent flower stalks and encourage new growth. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and prevents it from becoming leggy.Toxicity
Clary sage is generally non-toxic to pets and humans. However, as with any plant, it is best to prevent pets from ingesting large quantities.Additional
Clary sage is valued for its essential oil, which has a sweet, nutty fragrance. The oil is often used in aromatherapy for its calming properties. The plant also attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to a pollinator garden.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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