Saliva elegans
(Pineapple Sage)
Origin: Native of Mexico
Family: Lamiaceae
Light: Full sun
Height: 3-4'
Spacing: 2-3'
Blooms: Fragrant, red, 2-lipped, terminal, mid-Spring
Foliage: Light green, aromatic, pineapple-scented, herbaceous, fuzzy, soft, serrated, opposite
Soil: Well-drained, rich, alkaline, neutral
Water: Regular
Uses: Herb, culinary, tea, pot-pourris, butterfly garden, hummingbird garden, borders, center of beds
Propagation: Tip cuttings (In Spring)
Comments: Salvia elegans or Pineapple Sage is a herbaceous semi-woody subshrub with an open-branched, airy growth habit. It is native to Mexico. In mid-Spring, Salvia elegans produces spikes of fragrant red two-lipped terminal flowers through Summer and Fall. Butterflies and hummingbirds are magnetized by its nectar-rich blossoms while the birds have a gala feast with the seeds. Pineapple Sage has light green, serrated, pineapple-scented foliage borne on square stems. When brushed the leaves emit a delightful aroma loved by many. Salvia elegans is easily propagated from tip cuttings taken in Spring. The seeds would not come true to parent. Pineapple Sage thrives best in well-drained, rich, alkaline or neutral soil in a sunny environment. Trim plant by half in Winter and it will return next season with a more vibrant growth. Mass plant Salvia elegans in the border for a splendid display. It stands out in the middle of the perennial bed. In colder areas, Pineapple Sage can also be container cultivated and brought indoors for the Winter. This splendid herb is not only beautiful but tastes good too. Both the flowers and foliage have many uses. The fresh leaves are popularly used in culinary. The bright red flowers brightens up a plate of salad or desserts make them look really appetizing. Hot or cold iced tea taste delicious with a few crushed leaves added in them. Dried leaves make wonderful pot-pourris for the home, car or office. I love the aroma very much and stick a few in my dresser. In colder areas, Salvia elegans can be container cultivated and brought indoors for the Winter. It is a pleasing showstopper.
USDA Zones: 8-11