Pineapple Sage

Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans) is a late-blooming annual (or tender perennial) that takes its sweet time about blooming. In fact, it blooms so late that frost is usually just around the corner. That doesn’t diminish this plant’s appeal, however, because there is lots to love. The major attraction is the delicious fragrance, just like a pineapple, when you rub or crush the leaves.

Pineapple Sage is in the mint family. Grown either in a pot or in the ground, you can expect plants to reach 3-5 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width. Sunny exposures are best but a little shade, preferably in afternoon, is fine. Good drainage is a must. It is drought tolerant but looks best with regular water. When plants are too dry, the leaves will wilt. Fertilizers are not really needed aside from compost.

A frost will kill the plant back to the ground. It is possible for it to survive the winter months if it is located in a warm pocket and the soil is not overly saturated.

There are different varieties available including those with green or chartreuse foliage. Flowers are red.

Look for Pineapple Sage in the Herbs section.