Pineapple Sage

Botanical name: Salvia elegans

Life cycle: Perennial

Height: 1.2 – 1.5 m

Position: Full sun

Soil preference: Well drained

Description

Pineapple sage is an herbaceous perennial growing 1.2 to 1.5 metres in height. The ovate leaves are a grey-green colour. The leaves are covered in small hairs and are set in pairs along the stem. The pineapple scented leaves are strongly fragrant. The flowers are scarlet red and have a tube-like appearance. Pineapple sage develops a dense, rounded form and produces numerous leafy, erect stems and lateral branches that hold the striking red, flower spikes.

Uses

Culinary - The leaves and flowers of pineapple sage are both edible.  The flowers are reminiscent of honeysuckle and make a colourful addition to salads, fruit cocktails or any garnish. Their vibrant red colour compliments many dishes. They can also be sugared and used to garnish cakes or cookie platters. Fresh sprigs of pineapple sage can be added as a garnish to cold drinks and fruit salads, cool drinks and iced or herbal teas.

Medicinal - Pineapple sage was used extensively in Mexican traditional medicine, particularly for the treatment of anxiety and high blood pressure. Pineapple sage contains many of the same clarifying, digestive and immune-boosting qualities as sage. Pineapple sage is sweet and relaxing in nature, with adaptogenic properties that help reduce stress and anxiety and will balance the nervous system.

Pineapple sage can also benefit digestion, heartburn and be used as a general tonic.

Companion planting - The flowers are attractive to bees and birds seeking out nectar.

Growing conditions

Pineapple sage grows best in full sun in moist, well-drained soil.  Although somewhat drought tolerant, leaves will begin to droop with insufficient moisture. Although the plant will die down to the ground with the first frost, it will grow back the next spring in mild climates. Pineapple sage can be propagated by stem cuttings. Cut back after flowering and protect from frost in winter.  

9cm pot.