Sage - Purple Salvia officinalis purpurascens

Common Name:
Purple Sage

Description:
Purple Sage is a striking and aromatic culinary herb prized for its soft, textured foliage that blends silvery-green tones with rich purple hues. This hardy perennial forms a compact, bushy shape, making it both an attractive ornamental feature and a highly functional kitchen garden staple. The velvety leaves release a warm, earthy fragrance when brushed or harvested, commonly used to enhance meats, stuffing, and roasted vegetable dishes. During late spring to summer, it produces delicate spikes of small, mauve to purple flowers that attract bees and beneficial pollinators. Thriving in Melbourne’s climate, Purple Sage prefers a full sun position and well-drained soil, showing excellent tolerance to dry conditions once established. Regular pruning encourages fresh growth and helps maintain a dense, tidy habit, making it ideal for borders, herb gardens, and decorative pots.

Form:
Shrub - Small

Mature Size:
Height: 40–70 cm
Width: 40–70 cm

Aspect:
Full Sun
Part Shade

Flowering:
Flowers in Spring
Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
Purple
Mauve

Key Attributes:
Bee Attracting
Culinary Herb
Drought Tolerant
Perennial
Scented foliage
Suitable for Pots

Toxicity:
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets when used in normal culinary quantities. Excessive consumption may cause mild digestive discomfort.

Companion Plants:
Rosemary
Thyme
Lavender
Oregano
Parsley