A Complete Guide to Clary Sage: Characteristics, Uses and How to Grow It

Clary sage is an aromatic herb in the Lamiaceae family, genus Salvia, with the botanical name Salvia sclarea. It originated in the coastal regions of the Mediterranean and has a very long history of cultivation in Europe. Its Chinese name contains the word for happy, which is said to relate to the relaxing, pleasurable feeling its essential oil fragrance brings, while the English name clary comes from the words clear eye, as in early European folk tradition it was used for eye-related care.

This plant is usually grown as a biennial or perennial. The plant is covered in fine hairs, and its leaves are broad with wrinkled edges. In early summer it sends up tall flower spikes, with bracts in pale purple, pink or creamy white, which look quite distinctive from a distance, so it is also often grown as an ornamental flower. The whole plant carries a rich herbal scent that can be smelled by gently rubbing the leaves.

The best-known use of clary sage is the extraction of its essential oil. In aromatherapy it is often used to create a relaxed, soothing atmosphere, and it is also a common ingredient in the perfume industry. In addition, its flower spikes can be used for ornamental display or as cut flowers, and in some regions the leaves are used to add flavor to wines and foods. It should be noted that although it is a close relative in the same genus as the common culinary sage and chia sage (Salvia hispanica), which produces chia seeds, it is a different species with different primary uses.

As for growing, clary sage likes a sunny spot with good drainage and tolerates drought well; its greatest enemy is waterlogged soil that rots the roots. It is generally sown in spring or autumn. Keep the soil slightly moist during the seedling stage, and once the plant is established care is minimal, watering only when the soil is dry. During the rainy season, ensure good ventilation and humidity control to reduce disease problems. Overall, it is a fairly easy aromatic plant for beginners.