Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Clary sage on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Clary sage
Salvia sclarea, commonly known as Clary Sage, is a robust perennial herb prized for its large, velvety leaves and impressive flower spikes with pink, purple, or white bracts. With a distinctive aroma and stately habit, it's ideal for cottage gardens, herbaceous borders, or as a focal plant in beds. Its flowers attract pollinators, adding life and movement to the garden.
Native range
Mediterranean region, Central Asia, and the Caucasus
Care tips
Clary Sage thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct light for good growth and flowering. It prefers well-drained soils, ideally sandy or loamy, and is quite drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, allowing the topsoil to dry out between waterings. Avoid excessive soil moisture, as this can lead to root rot. Do not plant it in dense shade, as this will result in leggy growth and sparse flowering.
How to save a dying Clary sage
- Warning signs
- Yellow leaves, soft and drooping stems, stunted growth, or general wilting.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Ensure full sun and good air circulation.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of direct light. It does not tolerate constant root moisture.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Good drainage and sun are key to its recovery.