Pineapple Sage Salvia elegans

As the common name suggests, pineapple sage is noted for the pineapple scent and flavor of its foliage. This is a shrubby perennial blooms with 1” long bright scarlet red flowers from late summer into fall. Flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. Pineapple sage will typically grow to 4-5’ tall and to 2-3’ wide in one growing season. Pineapple sage is native to Mexico and Guatemala where it is typically found growing in woodland peripheries in the Sierra Madre from 6,000 to 9,000 feet in elevation.

This sage is best grown in soil amended with compost, even moisture, in full sun. Tolerates light shade, poor soils and some drought. Plants will spread by underground runners, but are not invasive.

The leaves and flowers of Pineapple sage make a tasty tea. Flowers may be used as a garnish, or may be added to fruit cocktails or salads. Dried leaves may be added to potpourris.

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