Salvia pratensis aka Meadow Clary

Salvia pratensis is a perennial known as meadow sage or meadow clary. It belongs to the mint family and comes from Europe. It is native to Britain, where it is rare. There, it grows in old grassland on chalk and limestone. Its meadow roots suit wildflower plantings and informal garden beds.

The plant forms clumps with a woody base and upright stems. It reaches about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. RHS gives a spread of 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. Missouri Botanical Garden reports wider clumps, reaching 3 feet [0.91 metres]. The oval leaves have a wrinkled surface and dull grey-green colour. They can reach about 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] long. Crushed leaves give off a light scent. The plant sheds its leaves for winter.

Tall flower spikes rise above the leaves in early summer. Each holds many small flowers with two lips. Most flowers are deep lavender-blue or violet-blue. Pink and white flowers occur less often. Missouri Botanical Garden lists a flowering season from May to September. Later blooms may appear when gardeners remove old flower spikes. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers. The stems also provide flowers for cutting. Beds, borders, cottage gardens and wildlife gardens all suit this plant. It can also serve as an edging plant.

Full sun gives the best growing conditions, though light shade is tolerated. The roots need soil that drains well. Sand, loam and chalk are suitable, across acid to alkaline soils. The plant copes with dry spells and resists deer. Steady moisture helps it flower again during summer. Remove faded spikes to extend the bloom season. Cut untidy stems back to the leaves at ground level. RHS rates it H7; Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 4–8. Seeds can be sown in pots in spring, using a cold frame.

Pests and diseases seldom cause serious trouble. Whitefly and scale may appear, along with mildew, rust or leaf spot. RHS also lists wilt, root rots and rare honey fungus. PFAF notes weed potential, so unwanted spread is possible. The bitter, pungent herb has flavoured beer and wine. It has also served as a substitute for culinary sage. PFAF gives it a low food-use rating and reports no known hazards. That report does not establish safety for every use or pet. PFAF lists no known medicinal uses.