Piemont Clary Sage

Piemont Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea 'Piemont')

The Piemont Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea 'Piemont') is a striking biennial or short-lived perennial known for its tall spikes of lavender-pink flowers and highly fragrant, textured foliage. This robust plant adds architectural height, color, and pollinator appeal to garden beds, borders, and cottage gardens.

Distinctive Features

Piemont Clary Sage is prized for its large, soft, gray-green leaves and towering flower spikes adorned with papery, pastel-hued bracts. Blooming in early to mid-summer, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. Its bold presence and strong fragrance make it a standout in herb gardens and ornamental plantings.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, moderately fertile soil.
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately.
• Humidity: Prefers dry to moderate humidity levels.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9 (grown as a biennial in colder climates).

Ideal Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: A top choice for attracting bees and butterflies.
• Herb & Medicinal Gardens: Traditionally used for essential oils and herbal remedies.
• Garden Borders: Adds height, texture, and soft color.

Low Maintenance Care

Piemont Clary Sage is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives with occasional watering and light pruning.

• Watering: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
• Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering and cut back after blooming to encourage basal growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote strong growth.
• Propagation: Easily grown from seeds; self-seeds in favorable conditions.

Why Choose Piemont Clary Sage?

With its stunning flower spikes, drought tolerance, and pollinator-friendly nature, Piemont Clary Sage is a fantastic addition to any sunny landscape.

• Showy Flower Spikes: Lavender-pink bracts provide an elegant, ornamental touch.
• Attracts Pollinators: A magnet for bees and butterflies.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care and occasional pruning.
• Versatile Placement: Ideal for borders, herb gardens, and cottage-style plantings.

For those looking to add a fragrant, pollinator-attracting perennial to their garden, Piemont Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea 'Piemont') is an exceptional choice.