LAVENDER SAGE SEEDS

Salvia lavandulifolia

This species of Salvia is too rarely grown in northern gardens, where it is an excellent substitute for rosemary. Lavender Sage looks very much like common garden sage (Salvia officinalis), but has a fantastic lavender-rosemary scent and flavor. The preferred species of culinary sage in Spain. Dried, it is excellent for use in herbal tea and to flavor baked goods. Wonderful in combination with orange peel. Produces an essential oil that has been employed in the treatment of dementia and diabetes. Hydrolates are useful for skin care.

Native to the Iberian peninsula, this species requires full sun and well-drained soil to thrive and to overwinter. Dryer soils will produce plants with a higher concentration of essential oils. Do not fertilize or irrigate once established. Plants will become quite woody with age and should be replaced after several years. Propagate by seeds or by cuttings.

Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost: sow seeds just below surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug; mist generously with warm water; cover with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature; kept warm (70F) and moist in bright light, seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks. Prick out seedlings when they have two sets of true leaves to grow on in individual 3" pots in bright light at room temperature. Tranplant to the garden after the last frost. Water regularly just until established.

Hardy to at least zone 5.

Packet contains at least 20 seeds.