Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) Seeds

Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) is a striking biennial perennial admired for its tall flower spikes and showy pink-purple bracts that glow in the summer sun. Its strong vertical shape and aromatic foliage bring height, color, and texture to cottage gardens, borders, and meadow plantings. A favorite of pollinators, Clary Sage thrives in dry, sunny soils and looks stunning in naturalistic landscapes, adding drama and movement with its towering blooms.

Features

• Showy pink-purple bracts on dramatic tall flower stalks.
• Aromatic foliage and flowers attract bees and butterflies.
• Excellent for dry, sunny, low-maintenance gardens.
• Strong vertical accent for borders and cottage landscapes.
• Grows as a biennial (leaf rosette first year, flowers second year).
• Non-GMO Salvia sclarea heirloom seed variety.

Specifications

• Common Name: Clary Sage
• Scientific Name: Salvia sclarea
• Plant Type: Biennial (flowers second year; may self-seed)
• USDA Zones: 5–9
• Bloom Color: Pink-purple bracts with white-lavender flowers
• Bloom Season: Early to mid-summer
• Height: 36–60 inches
• Spread: 18–30 inches
• Growth Habit: Rosette year one; tall branching flower spikes year two
• Foliage: Large, textured, aromatic green leaves
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Well-drained, average to dry soil
• Water Needs: Low once established
• Drought Tolerance: High
• Pollinator Friendly: Yes (bees, butterflies)
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Plant Spacing: 18–24 inches
• Seed Viability: 1–3 years stored cool & dry

Planting Guide

• Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct sow in fall/spring.
• Press seeds onto soil surface or cover very lightly (1/16 inch).
• Keep soil lightly moist until germination (10–20 days).
• Provide full sun and good airflow for seedlings.
• Transplant outdoors after frost into well-drained soil.
• Water moderately during establishment; reduce watering once mature.
• Expect foliage rosette first year; flowering spikes second year.
• Remove spent flower stalks or leave seedheads for reseeding.
• Allow natural reseeding for continuous garden displays.