Plant description
The Sage is a perennial, evergreen, aromatic, semi-woody Mediterranean shrub, with a moderate growth rate that reaches a height of 30-60 cm. Its leaves are fleshy and oblong, with an ash-green hue and are covered with fluff, especially the younger ones.
Sage blooms from May to June and its flowers have a dark blue, purple or violet hue. Although we will find it native in various regions of Greece, we can plant it in the garden or in a pot on our balcony to enjoy its leaves and aroma.
More appropriate position and care
More suitable position for the sage it is the one with a lot of sun and protected from strong winds. It is resistant to cold and heat, as long as it is in a sunny position.
It thrives in calcareous soils, with good fertility, but has no problem growing in poor and stony soils.
Must you water the sage when the soil has dried. After you plant it, it needs enough water in the first few days, until its root is established. It would be good to water once or twice a week.
The sage you prune to preserve its shape, to collect its leaves for drying. If you want to prune the lowest parts of the plant, it would be best to do it after flowering.
It has no special requirements lubrication, a complete and balanced fertilizer in the spring, once a year is enough.
Sage is one of the plants that is not easily attacked by enemies and diseases, but care should be taken in watering, because the leaves of the plant should not be wet because it can be infected by mildew.
Uses
- Sage is used as a decoction for its nice taste and beneficial properties, as well as as a spice in the kitchen.
- The sage in the form of a decoction is ideal for the treatment of the mouth, due to its antiseptic properties, against pharyngitis and gingivitis.
- It has gastric, tonic and cardiotonic properties while it is also used against neuralgia.
- Also, the leaves and flowers of sage give an essential oil that is widely used in perfumery, pharmaceuticals and food industry.
