Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. Its Latin name comes from the word salvare, meaning “to save” or “to heal,” reflecting its traditional medicinal importance. The species name officinalis indicates its recognised use in official medicine and herbal apothecaries.

Historically, Sage has been valued for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks and Romans used it not only for cooking but also for spiritual and medicinal purposes. The Romans considered it sacred and believed it could promote longevity and cure various ailments. During the Middle Ages, Sage was a staple in monastery gardens and was believed to ward off evil, improve memory, and treat conditions ranging from sore throats to digestive issues. It was even one of the key ingredients in the infamous “Four Thieves Vinegar,” a herbal concoction used during plague outbreaks in Europe.

Traditionally, Sage has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes. In the kitchen, it is especially popular for flavouring meats, particularly pork, and is often used in stuffing and sausages. Medicinally, it has been used to treat sore throats, ease indigestion, reduce inflammation, and improve memory. It is also used in teas and gargles for oral health. A related species, Salvia apiana (White Sage), has been used by Native American cultures in smudging ceremonies, though this is distinct from culinary Sage. We also have White Sage in stock now, just search for it in the search bar.

Growing notes:

To grow Sage from seed in Australia, the best time to plant is from early spring to early summer, typically between September and November. In warmer regions such as coastal New South Wales or Queensland, sowing can begin in late winter (August), while in cooler climates like Victoria or Tasmania, it’s best to wait until after the last frost.

Start by sowing seeds into trays or small pots using a light, free-draining seed-raising mix. The seeds should be sown about two to three millimetres deep and lightly covered with soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination generally takes between 14 to 21 days, with the ideal temperature range being 18 to 21 degrees Celsius.

Once seedlings develop two sets of true leaves and are sturdy enough to handle, they can be transplanted into the garden or larger pots. Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Allow about 30 to 45 centimetres between each plant. Sage prefers relatively dry conditions and should not be over watered. It also benefits from being pruned after flowering to encourage a compact, bushy shape.

Although Sage is a perennial in many Australian climates, in areas with high humidity or excessive rainfall it may behave more like an annual. It is a good idea to replace the plant every three to five years as it can become woody and less productive over time. It can also be propagated from cuttings taken in late summer for ongoing supply.