Clary Sage [Salvia sclarea]

The biennial clary sage is a versatile tea and medicinal plant. The species is used as a remedy for tension, to relax the nerves and anxiety. When smoked, the species acts as an aphrodisiac. Ideal for direct sowing, no pot cultivation, sowing in spring-summer, good for mixed cultivation, harvesting the seeds and leaves.

 Description 
Clary sage is a versatile biennial tea and medicinal plant that is originally native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. In nature, the medicinal plant can be found on rocky slopes, fields and roadsides at altitudes of up to 2,000 meters. The species is used as a remedy for tension, to relax the nerves and anxiety. The antispasmodic properties can promote blood circulation and boost the mood. Its essential oil is particularly popular with women and can make menstruation more bearable. In the first year, the plants form a rosette of leaves, and in the second year they develop impressive inflorescences that exude a pleasant lemony to spicy aroma. The leaves also have a spicy taste and are suitable for making liqueur and can be used to flavor jam and fruit desserts. The flowers are an edible garnish. When smoked, the species acts as an aphrodisiac. Attracts special types of bees.

 General information 
Plant family: Lamiaceae
Life cycle: Biennial
Days to harvest: 120 days
Plant height approx.: 120 cm
Root type: Deep rooter
Nutrient requirements: Medium
Water requirements: Medium
Winter hardiness: Up to -15°C
Location: Sunny
Soil: Permeable, humus-rich sandy loam soil

pH value: 7 to 8

 Sowing and planting information 
Germination type: Dark germinator
Sowing depth: 1-2 cm
Optimal germination temperature: 18-22 °C
Germination time: 7-14 days
Plant and row spacing: 60x60 cm

Germination ability of seeds: 2-3 years

 Mixed culture 
Optimal mixed culture: Lavender
Unfavorable mixed culture: -

 Sowing by climate zone 
Subtropic climate (Mediterranean) (e. g. B. Portugal, Spain, Italy)
Direct sowing from March to October is recommended. The plants should ideally be planted in a sunny location.
Moderate climate (e. g. B. Germany, Switzerland, Poland)
Direct sowing from April to July is recommended. The plants should ideally be planted in a sunny location.

 General recommendations 
Direct sowing is recommended. After germination, thin out the plants to the specified plant spacing. Pre-cultivation in pots is also advisable.
Clary sage prefers a permeable, nutrient-rich, slightly dry to moist, calcareous, sandy to stony or humus-rich sandy loam soil. Doesn't tolerate waterlogging.

 Additional tips 
The species establishes itself in favorable locations. In winter, the soil should be rather dry. In order to quickly obtain a fine, crumbly and permeable soil with good nutrient and water storage capacity, additional incorporation of biochar and primary rock flour is recommended.

 Type of propagation 
Propagation occurs via seeds.

 Plant care 
During long dry periods, regular watering is advisable to keep growth stable. Check plants for snail infestation. No fertilization necessary.

 Other names 
Botanical names: Salvia sclarea
English names: Clary sage
German names: Muskatellersalbei, Scharlauch, Scharlei, Römischer Salbei, Muskat-Salbei
Portuguese names: Sálvia sclarea
Spanish names: Salvia esclarea
French names: Sauge sclarée

 Origin 
Country: Portugal