Salvia pomifera aka Grey Musk Sage

Salvia pomifera, or apple sage, is an evergreen shrub. It belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Its native range runs from Greece to western Türkiye, including Crete. In Türkiye, it grows on rocky slopes and limestone cliffs. It also grows in Mediterranean scrub, from sea level to 2,625 feet [800 metres]. These habitats help explain its need for sun and good drainage.

Apple sage reaches about 3.3 feet [1 metre] tall and wide. It grows at a moderate rate and keeps its leaves year-round. The leaves have a strong scent and taste. Their flavour recalls both lavender and common sage. Flowers appear from May to July. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers, and the plant is self-fertile. The supplied species account also notes its value for wildlife.

Grow this shrub in full sun, rather than shade. It needs light soil that drains very well. Sandy soil suits it, though it can also grow in loam. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soils. The soil may be dry or moist, but winter wet can kill it. It prefers rich soil, though excess nitrogen promotes leaves at flowering’s expense. Reported cold tolerance falls between 14 and 23°F [−10 to −5°C]. PFAF lists USDA zones 7–10, but warns against colder sites. Beds beside south- or west-facing walls are suggested planting sites.

The leaves serve as a food flavouring and tea herb. Cooks use them to season meat dishes and stews. Gall wasps cause swellings on young branches. In Greece, people coat these galls with sugar to make sweets. The galls have an astringent taste. The source does not say whether insects remain when people prepare them. These galls are insect-induced growths, rather than fruit. Greek practice also includes medicinal tea made from dried leaves. The evidence describes traditional use, not proof of health benefits.

PFAF lists no known hazards, but also gives a caution. Too much leaf tea may cause heavy sweating, weakness, or faintness. Its food uses therefore do not establish safety at every dose. To raise new plants, sow seed under glass in March or April. Seeds tend to sprout within two weeks. Half-ripe cuttings offer another route during the growing season. Near its cold limit, protect young plants through their first winter. Plant them out in late spring of the following year.