Salvia elegans aka Pineapple Sage

Salvia elegans, or pineapple sage, belongs to the mint family. It grows wild in Mexico, with several sources also naming Guatemala. It grows along woodland edges in mountain regions. This tender perennial forms a clump and grows fast. Garden plants reach about 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 m) tall. They can spread 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 m) wide. RHS gives smaller sizes, up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall. Its listed spread reaches just 1.6 feet (0.5 m).

The plant has upright, square stems with open branches. Older stems may turn woody and remain in place. Tall stems can snap in strong wind. Green, oval leaves grow in pairs along the stems. Fine hairs give them a soft feel. Their edges have small teeth. Crushed leaves release a scent like pineapple. Sources differ on whether the plant keeps its leaves. Frost kills the top growth, but mild winters may allow regrowth.

Bright red, tube-shaped flowers grow in whorls along terminal spikes. Each bloom has a hooded upper lip and broad lower lip. The flowers open in sequence up each spike. Missouri Botanical Garden lists bloom from August to October. Other sources report autumn bloom extending into early winter. Bees and hummingbirds pollinate the flowers, which also attract butterflies. Each fruit has four chambers, each holding one nutlet.

Grow pineapple sage in sun and rich soil that drains well. It grows best with moist soil, despite some drought tolerance. Too little water can cause leaves to fall. Excess winter moisture can kill plants. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 8–10; RHS rates it H2. These sources differ in their view of cold tolerance. In cold regions, grow it as an annual or overwinter containers indoors. Under glass, provide bright light and shade from hot sun. Cut off old flower spikes to extend bloom. Softwood or semi-ripe cuttings offer a means of propagation.

Use it in herb beds, borders, containers, and wildlife gardens. Leaves and flowers are edible and can flavor tea or salads. Dried leaves also suit potpourri. PFAF reports traditional tea use for nerves and digestion. This is a reported use, not proof of benefit. Sources list no known hazards and few serious garden problems. Possible pests include slugs, snails, aphids, capsid bugs, mites, and whiteflies. Powdery mildew, wilt, and root rots can occur. RHS also lists honey fungus as a rare risk.