2 named cultivars

annual

Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage

Salvia horminum

The Story

Plant Bio

An upright, bushy annual prized for its showy, colorful bracts that persist for a long period. The actual flowers are small and less significant.

Distinctive for its unique floral bracts and ability to thrive in poor soils.

Uses & Benefits:

Vibrant spikes add striking color to gardens and containers.

Herb can be used for culinary flavoring and medicinal purposes.

Attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

20 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Dry to Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and root in 4-6 weeks.
Provide full sun for optimal growth and vibrant flowering.
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between watering.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooming.

Pro Tip

Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost for early blooms outside.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness
Use organic compost to enrich soil

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't neglect deadheading spent flowers
Avoid planting in poorly-drained areas

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pinch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid herbaceous borderFragrant low hedgeColorful container garden

Companion Plants

Marigolds Lavender Rosemary Salvia nemorosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage questions

What zones can Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage grow in?

Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage deer resistant?

Yes — Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage bloom?

Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage need full sun?

Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Annual Clary Sage, Painted Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.