Last Updated on January 26, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
When most people think of sage, the culinary herb comes to mind. But did you know that sage is also a great plant for your garden? There are many different types of sage plants, each with their own unique set of benefits.
In this blog post, we will discuss 26 different types of sage plants and their various uses. Whether you’re looking for a medicinal herb or just a pretty addition to your garden, sage has something to offer!
What is a sage plant?
A sage plant is an aromatic herb that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. There are many different types of sage plants, each with their own unique properties and uses. Culinary sage (Salvia officinalis) is perhaps the most well-known variety, but there are also medicinal sage plants, ornamental sage plants, and more.
How Many Types of Sage are There?
There are eleven types of sage plants, each with their own unique culinary and medicinal uses. While most people are familiar with the common culinary sage, there are plenty of other varieties to explore. From the ornamental sage plant that adds a splash of color to your garden, to the licorice-flavored German sage, there is a sage for everyone.
Sages are hardy plants that can thrive in a variety of climates, making them a great choice for gardeners across the country. They are also relatively easy to care for, and don’t require a lot of maintenance.
What kind of sage is good for smudging?
The most common sage variety for smudging is the white sage plant. It has a strong, pungent aroma that is said to cleanse the air and remove negative energy. Other types of sage can also be used for smudging, but may not have as strong of an aroma.
What sage smells the best?
There are many types of sage plants, and each has a unique smell. Some people believe that sage smells the best when it is fresh, while others prefer the scent of dried sage. No matter which type of sage you choose, you’re sure to enjoy its aroma!
Different Types Of Sage Plants (With Pictures)
1. Anise-Scented Sage (Salvia guaranitica)
Anise-scented sage is a beautiful plant that can be used both for culinary and medicinal purposes. Its leaves have a strong anise scent, which makes it a popular choice for flavoring food. Anise-scented sage also has medicinal properties, and can be used to treat respiratory problems, digestive issues, and other health problems.
This sage has long, lance-shaped leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves have an intense licorice flavor and are often used to season meats, stews, and soups. Anise-scented sage is also a popular medicinal herb, and is often used to treat respiratory problems.
Anise-scented sage grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can be grown from seed or transplanted from starter plants. This sage blooms in late summer or early fall, and the flowers are a beautiful purple-blue color.
Anise-Scented Sage is a hardy perennial that can be grown in USDA zones four through nine. It makes a great addition to any garden, and its licorice flavor is sure to please your taste buds!
2. Annual Sage (Salvia horminum or Salvia viridis)
Annual sage is the perfect addition to any herb garden. This hardy annual has a flavor similar to that of lavender, making it a great choice for use in both culinary and medicinal preparations.
Annual sage grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can be started from seed or transplanted once it’s established.
3. Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii)
One of the most popular types of sage plants is Autumn Sage. This perennial shrub grows up to three feet tall and blooms from late summer into fall, with spikes of pink, purple, or white flowers.
The leaves are also edible and can be used in salads or added to other dishes for flavor. Additionally, Autumn Sage has medicinal properties and can be used to treat a number of conditions.
Autumn Sage is drought tolerant and does well in USDA zones five through nine. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Plant Autumn Sage in well-drained soil and water regularly, especially during the first year after planting. This sage plant is not frost tolerant and should be brought indoors if there is a chance of frost.
If you’re looking for a beautiful sage plant that has both culinary and medicinal uses, Autumn Sage is a great choice!
4. Blackcurrant Sage (Salvia microphylla)
Blackcurrant sage is a hardy perennial that can reach up to three feet in height. The leaves are gray-green and fuzzy, with a purple hue on the undersides.
In late summer and early fall, it produces small, tubular flowers in shades of pink and purple. Blackcurrant sage has a strong flavor reminiscent of black currants and is used in both culinary and medicinal applications.
Blackcurrant sage makes an excellent addition to the herb garden, as it is drought tolerant and relatively pest-free. The leaves can be dried for use in teas, tinctures, or salves, or they can be fresh chopped and added to salads or other dishes.
The flowers can also be dried and used as a culinary herb. Blackcurrant sage has many medicinal applications, including treating colds and flu, soothing sore throats, and easing digestion.
If you are looking for a hardy sage plant with multiple uses, blackcurrant sage is a great choice!
5. Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
Clary sage is a biennial or perennial herb that can reach up to five feet in height. The leaves are ovate and about three inches long, with hairy undersides.
The flowers are large and tubular, in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. Clary sage has a strong flavor that’s a cross between sage and citrus. It’s used in both culinary and medicinal applications.
The leaves of clary sage are edible and can be added to salads, soups, or stews. The flowers are also edible and make a colorful addition to salads. Clary sage is a good source of vitamins A and C.
Clary sage has a long history of use in traditional medicine. It’s been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including eye infections, menstrual cramps, anxiety, and headaches. Clary sage oil is also used in aromatherapy.
6. Cleveland Sage (Salvia clevelandii)
Cleveland sage is a beautiful, drought-tolerant plant that can be used in many ways in the garden. The fragrant leaves make an excellent culinary herb, adding flavor to dishes such as chicken or fish.
The flowers are also edible and can be added to salads or desserts. Cleveland sage is also a great choice for use in a medicinal herb garden. The leaves can be used to make a tea that is said to help with respiratory problems.
7. Desert Sage (Salvia dorrii)
One type of sage that does well in drier climates is the Desert Sage, or Salvia dorrii. This plant can reach up to three feet in height and has a purple flower spike. The leaves are also purple, and smell minty when crushed.
Desert Sage grows best in full sun and sandy soils. It’s culinary uses include adding it to teas, sauces, and dressings. It’s also been used medicinally to help with respiratory problems and as a general detoxifier.
8. Fruit Sage/Fruit-scented sage (Salvia dorisiana)
Fruit sage, also called fruit-scented sage, is a culinary sage that has a fruity aroma. The leaves are gray-green and ovate with serrated edges. This sage grows to be about 18 inches tall and blooms in light purple flowers.
Fruit sage is best used fresh in salads, dressings, or sauces. It can also be dried and used in herb blends. This sage is hardy in zones five through nine.
– Fruit sage has a fruity aroma
– Leaves are gray-green and ovate with serrated edges
– Grows to be about 18 inches tall
– Blooms in light purple flowers
– Best used fresh in salads, dressings, or sauces
– Can also be dried and used in herb blends
– Hardy in zones five through nine.
9. Common Garden Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Common Garden Sage is a fragrant, culinary sage that is easy to grow in most gardens. It has gray-green leaves and blue flowers. The leaves are used to flavor food, and the essential oil is used in aromatherapy.
Sage can also be used medicinally. It has been shown to help improve memory, respiratory health, and digestion.
10. Graham’s Sage (Grahamii sage)
Graham’s sage is a type of sage that is named after Dr. James Graham, who was one of the first to cultivate it. This sage has silver-gray leaves and grows up to three feet tall. It blooms in late summer or early fall with small, purple flowers.
The flowers are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish. Graham’s sage has a minty, peppery flavor and is used in culinary dishes. It also has medicinal uses and can be used to treat coughs, colds, and other respiratory problems.
11. Grape-Scented Sage (Salvia melissordora)
Grape-scented sage is a beautiful herb that can be used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The leaves have a wonderful grape-like scent and flavor, making them perfect for use in salads, teas, and other dishes.
Grape-scented sage also has a long history of use in traditional medicine, where it is prized for its many beneficial properties. For example, it is thought to be helpful in treating respiratory problems, headaches, and other conditions.
If you’re looking for a versatile and attractive sage plant to add to your garden, grape-scented sage is a great choice. It’s easy to grow and care for, and it provides a wealth of benefits for both your health and your home. So why not give it a try? You may be surprised at just how useful this little herb can be!
12. Greek Sage (Salvia fruticosa)
Greek sage is a type of sage that is native to the Mediterranean region. It has culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves are used to make tea, which can be enjoyed for its flavor or for its health benefits.
Greek sage is also sometimes used as a natural remedy for anxiety and other mood disorders. It grows up to three feet tall and has small, purple flowers.
13. Hummingbird Sage (Salvia spathacea)
Hummingbird sage is a type of sage plant that can be found in the wild throughout California and Arizona. This perennial shrub typically grows to heights of two to three feet, with showy spikes of bright lavender flowers that hummingbirds love.
Hummingbird sage has a number of culinary uses, such as adding it to salads or using it as a seasoning in fish or poultry dishes. The leaves can also be dried and used as an herbal tea that is believed to help calm the mind and promote relaxation.
Additionally, hummingbird sage has medicinal properties and has been used historically to treat a variety of conditions such as fever, inflammation, and even cancer. For all of these reasons, hummingbird sage is a great addition to any garden.
If you’re looking for a beautiful sage plant that has both culinary and medicinal uses, hummingbird sage is a great choice. This easy-to-grow perennial shrub will add color and interest to your garden, and the lavender flowers are sure to attract hummingbirds. Hummingbird sage makes a great addition to any garden, and is sure to be enjoyed by both humans and wildlife.
Hummingbird sage (Salvia spathacea) is a type of sage plant that can be found in the wild throughout California and Arizona. This perennial shrub typically grows to heights of two to three feet, with showy spikes of bright lavender flowers that hummingbirds love.
Hummingbird sage has a number of culinary uses, such as adding it to salads or using it as a seasoning in fish or poultry dishes. The leaves can also be dried and used as an herbal tea that is believed to help calm the mind and promote relaxation.
14. Mealy Cup Sage (Salvia farinacea)
Mealy cup sage is a common garden sage plant that has culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves are gray-green and covered in a mealy white wax, hence the name. The flowers are purple or blue, and the plant can reach up to three feet tall. Mealy cup sage is a hardy perennial that grows well in most climates.
The leaves of mealy cup sage are edible and have a slightly minty, peppery flavor. They can be used in salads, pestos, or other dishes. The flowers are also edible and can be added to salads or desserts.
Mealy cup sage has medicinal uses as well. It is a natural antiseptic and can be used to treat wounds, skin infections, and other ailments. The sage oil in mealy cup sage has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to relieve muscle pain, arthritis pain, and other joint pains.
If you are looking for a hardy perennial sage plant with culinary and medicinal uses, mealy cup sage is a good choice. It grows well in most climates and can be used to treat a variety of ailments.
15. Mexican Bush Sage (Salvia leucantha)
Mexican bush sage is a striking addition to any garden with its deep purple flowers. This sage variety is drought-tolerant and easy to grow, making it a great choice for novice gardeners.
Mexican bush sage has a wide range of culinary uses, from adding flavor to dishes like chicken enchiladas to using the leaves as a tea to help calm the mind. Additionally, Mexican bush sage has medicinal properties and can be used to treat a variety of issues like headaches, anxiety, and digestive problems.
If you’re looking for an attractive and versatile sage plant for your garden, Mexican bush sage is a great choice!
16. Mexican Chia (Salvia hispanica)
Mexican chia is a type of sage plant that has culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves can be eaten fresh or dried, and the seeds can be ground into a flour or added to drinks and smoothies.
Mexican chia is high in omega- fatty acids, antioxidants, protein, and fiber. It can help improve digestion, regulate blood sugar, and boost energy. Mexican chia is also anti-inflammatory and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
17. Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans)
Pineapple sage (Salvia elegans) is a type of sage that has culinary and medicinal uses. The leaves are used to add flavor to food, and the flowers can be made into a tea that is believed to help with respiratory problems.
Pineapple sage also contains antioxidants that may help protect the body against cell damage. This plant is drought-tolerant and can be grown in USDA zones seven through eleven.
Pineapple sage is a beautiful plant that has red flowers and green leaves. It can be grown in the garden or in a container, and it attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Pineapple sage is easy to grow and does well in hot weather conditions.
18. Pitcher Sage (Salvia azurea)
Pitcher sage is a beautiful plant that can add a splash of color to your garden. It has blue flowers and grows in tall spikes. The leaves are also attractive, with their deep green color and silver markings. But this sage isn’t just for looks – it’s also useful! Pitcher sage has a number of culinary and medicinal uses.
Pitcher sage is a good choice for culinary use because the leaves have a mild flavor. They can be used fresh or dried and are perfect for adding to salads, stir fries, and other dishes. The flowers can also be eaten – they have a sweet taste that makes them a great addition to desserts and drinks.
Pitcher sage is also a good choice for medicinal use. The leaves and flowers can be used to make teas that can help with a variety of issues, such as headaches, anxiety, and nausea. Pitcher sage is a great all-around plant for your garden!
19. Prawn Sage (Salvia haenkei)
Prawn sage is a perennial shrub that can reach up to three feet in height. The leaves are silvery green and fuzzy with an inch-long, purple stalk. This sage blooms from late spring to early summer with spikes of light lavender flowers. The flavor of the prawn sage is described as robust, with a hint of peppermint.
Prawn sage is a great plant for culinary use. The leaves can be used in salads, soups, or stews. The flowers are also edible and make a beautiful addition to any dish. Prawn sage has many medicinal uses as well. The leaves can be used to treat coughs, colds, and other respiratory ailments. The flowers can be used to treat headaches and other types of pain.
If you are looking for a culinary or medicinal sage plant, prawn sage is a great option. It is hardy in zones six through nine and grows well in both full sun and partial shade. Prawn sage is also drought tolerant once it is established. So if you are looking for a versatile sage plant, prawn sage is a great choice.
20. Salvia Van Houttei
Salvia Van Houttei is a type of sage plant that is often used for culinary purposes. The leaves have a slightly bitter taste and are perfect for adding flavor to dishes like salads, pasta, and soup.
Additionally, this type of sage plant can also be brewed into a tea that has a number of medicinal benefits. For example, Salvia Van Houttei tea is known to help improve digestion and relieve headaches. It can also be used as a natural sleep aid.
If you’re looking for a sage plant that has both culinary and medicinal benefits, then Salvia Van Houttei is a great option. Add it to your garden today!
21. Scarlet Sage (Salvia splendens)
Scarlet sage is a type of sage plant that is prized for its brightly colored flowers. The blooms can be red, pink, or purple and are sure to add a splash of color to any garden.
This variety of sage makes an excellent addition to any flower bed and can also be used in arrangements indoors. Scarlet sage is also popular with bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for any garden that wants to attract wildlife.
Scarlet sage is a perennial plant that grows best in zones nine through eleven. It can be grown from seed or propagated by division. This sage variety prefers full sun but can also tolerate light shade. Scarlet sage plants should be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. They can be fertilized once a month with an all-purpose fertilizer.
Scarlet sage has many culinary uses. The leaves can be used in salads, soups, and stews. The flowers can also be eaten and are a great addition to any dish. Scarlet sage is also used medicinally for a variety of purposes.
It can be used to treat a variety of respiratory problems, such as bronchitis and asthma. Scarlet sage is also said to be helpful in treating digestive problems and menstrual cramps.
If you are looking for a beautiful sage plant that has culinary and medicinal uses, then consider adding scarlet sage to your garden. This versatile plant is sure to please.
22. Sonoma Sage (Salvia sonomensis)
Sonoma sage is a beautiful plant that can be used in the garden for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The leaves have a strong, sage-like flavor and are great for adding to recipes or making tea.
Sonoma sage also has medicinal properties and can be used to help treat respiratory problems, headaches, and other ailments. Plant sonoma sage in full sun and give it plenty of room to grow; it can reach up to five feet tall.
23. Purple sage
Another type of sage that is great for the garden is purple sage (Salvia officinalis ‘Purpurascens’). This plant has beautiful purplish-blue leaves and produces spikes of pink flowers in the summer.
Purple sage is a culinary sage and has a strong, minty flavor. It can be used in teas, salads, and other recipes. Purple sage also has medicinal properties and can be used to help treat respiratory problems, headaches, and other ailments. Plant purple sage in full sun and give it plenty of room to grow; it can reach up to five feet tall.
24. South African Sage
South African sage is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial that grows up to three feet tall. It has lance-shaped leaves and spikes of lavender flowers in late summer. This sage is popular for its culinary uses, but it also has medicinal properties.
The leaves can be used to make a soothing infusion or tea, and the oil from the plant can be used to treat respiratory problems.
South African sage is easy to grow, and it makes a beautiful addition to any garden. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, and it prefers well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant and once established, requires very little care. South African sage is a great choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance plant that has both culinary and medicinal benefits.
If you’re looking for a sage plant that is both beautiful and useful, South African sage is a good choice. It’s easy to grow and has many culinary and medicinal uses.
25. White Sage (Salvia apiana)
White sage is a beautiful plant that can be used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The leaves have a strong, peppery flavor and are often used in stuffing, sauces, and dressings. White sage is also thought to have healing properties and is sometimes used as a natural remedy for colds and other respiratory infections.
26. Woodland Sage (Salvia nemorosa)
Woodland sage is a beautiful plant that can be used in the garden for culinary and medicinal purposes. The leaves are lance-shaped and gray-green, with purple flowers.
This sage is perfect for pollinators, as it blooms from early summer to late fall. It has a mild flavor that makes it great for adding to recipes. Woodland sage also has a variety of medicinal uses, such as treating colds and flus, boosting the immune system, and reducing inflammation.
FAQs
Does sage come back every year?
Yes, sage is a perennial plant and it will come back every year.
Are all types of sage edible?
No, not all types of sage are edible. Some sage plants are used for culinary purposes, while others have medicinal uses. Make sure you know which type of sage you are using before consuming it.
Conclusion
While there is still more research to be done on sage plants, the current findings are promising. Sage has been shown to have a variety of benefits for human health, and it may also provide some benefits for plants.
More research is needed to determine the specific effects of sage on plant growth, but the initial results suggest that sage could be a valuable tool for improving plant health. Have you tried using sage in your garden? What results did you see?