CLARY SAGE SEEDS

Salvia sclarea

We will not have this superior strain in 2024. Sad face.

The ancient Muscatel Sage. An old world medicinal that is still grown on an industrial scale for its valuable essential oil. Selected for distillation, but ideal for garden landscapes thanks to its vigorous growth, dramatic lilac flowers and persistent rose pink bracts.

Historically added to wine in Germany, and eventually beer in Britain, to produce uniquely euphoric intoxicants. The fresh flowering tops of Clary Sage have also been used to create syrups and candies imbued with the same mildly narcotic qualities. The young green leaves are fleshy and edible and may be used similarly to those of Borage. Decoction of the seeds contains a unique mucilage that has been used for millenia to clean the eyes, a practice for which the species is named. Even the most ancient wild form was named Oculus Christi.

Sadly, this plant has fallen out of favor among modern herbalists. The essential oil is incredibly potent and now widely available. Clary Sage has long been used in the treatment of amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and menopause, and we prefer the gentle nature of the fresh plant as compared to the overwhelming olfactory and endocrinal assault of the essential oil. That said, this is a powerful medicinal, and even casual use of the fresh herb is not recommended for pregnant women that wish to stay that way.

Biennial in nature, these seeds will produce plants that bloom in the second year. Seeds germinate readily in moist warm soils in full sun, and will happily tolerate drought and neglect once established. Avoid rich moist soils. Best in an herb garden or along walls and foundations with a southern exposure. Loves heat and sun, and suffers in cool damp conditions. Hardy to at least zone 4. Plants in flower grow to just over 3'. Blooms over a long period, and bracts persist all summer in many locations. Suitable for cutting. Lovely and historic.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.