Clary Sage [Salvia sclarea]

Clary sage is a versatile, biennial tea and medicinal plant that is originally native to the Mediterranean region to Central Asia. In nature, the medicinal plant can be found on rocky slopes, fields and roadsides up to 2,000 meters above sea level. The species is used as a remedy for tension, to relax the nerves and fears. The antispasmodic properties can promote blood circulation and stimulate mood. Its essential oil is particularly popular with women and can make menstrual periods more bearable. In the first year the plants form a rosette of leaves, in the second year they develop impressive inflorescences that exude a pleasantly lemony to spicy aroma. The leaves also have a spicy taste and are suitable for making liqueurs and can be used to flavor jams 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 eater
Water requirements: Medium
Winter hardiness: Up to -15 °C
Location: Sunny
Soil: Permeable, loamy, sandy, gravelly, stony, humus

pH value: 7 to 8

Sowing and planting information
Germ 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

Optimal mixed culture: Lavender
Unfavorable mixed culture: -

Subtropic climate (Mediterranean) (e. g. B. Portugal, Spain, Italy)
We recommend pre-cultivation in small pots from March to October.

Moderate climate (e. g. B. Germany, Switzerland, Poland)
We recommend pre-cultivation in small pots from April to July.

General
When pre-cultivating, sow the seeds in small pots and let the seedlings grow to the first visible clary sage leaves. Then plant the pregrown plants from the pots directly into the open field. The seedlings are planted in the bed from the 2nd pair of leaves after the cotyledons.
Clary sage prefers a sunny location with a permeable, rather dry, gravelly, stony, humus and sandy loam soil. Prepare the soil with seasoned animal manure. Avoid 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, we recommend additional incorporation of biochar and primary rock powder.

Type of propagation
It spreads via seeds.

Plant care
During long dry periods, regular watering makes sense to keep growth stable. Check plants for snail infestation. Beds prepared with animal manure and planting in mixed culture replace additional fertilizer.

Germination ability of seeds: 2-3 years

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