Salvia elegans
perennial

Pineapple Sage

Salvia elegans

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

A tender perennial with aromatic leaves and red tubular flowers that attract pollinators. Known as pineapple sage, its leaves have a unique pineapple scent.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright red or orange flowers add vibrant color to gardens and containers, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators.
Practical UsesEdible flowers can be used in culinary dishes and teas, providing both aesthetic and flavor benefits.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinators and beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they are 2-3 inches tall.
  4. Water consistently but avoid waterlogging; mature plants need moderate watering.
  5. Fertilize monthly during active growing season with balanced fertilizer.
  6. Prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth and remove spent blooms.

Pro Tip

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming
  • Provide full sun for best flowering

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don't forget to prune after flowering
  • Avoid planting in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pinch
Plant
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant perennial borderAromatic herb gardenColorful container display

Companion Plants

Lavender Rosemary Sedum Coreopsis Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pineapple Sage questions

What zones can Pineapple Sage grow in?

Pineapple Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pineapple Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Pineapple Sage bloom?

Pineapple Sage typically blooms in late 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 Pineapple Sage need full sun?

Pineapple Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Pineapple Sage drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Pineapple Sage with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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