Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)

Clary Sage, a Mediterranean herb, is known for its purple or blue-violet flowers and gray-green leaves. It has a rich history and folk lore, with the name "Clary" derived from the Latin word "clarus," meaning "clear," and its historical use as a medicinal herb. Clary Sage was used in traditional European medicine, particularly for treating eye ailments, and was also used in love potions and spells. Its leaves and seeds were sometimes added to beer as a flavoring agent and a natural sedative.

Cultivation of Clary Sage is easy and requires full sun and well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. The plant can withstand cold winters and drought conditions, and its flowers bloom from midsummer to fall. To grow Clary Sage, follow these steps:

1. Sow seeds in the garden after the last frost date.
2. Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of 8 to 12 inches and adding compost or organic matter.
3. Transplant the seeds into the garden bed, ensuring the soil is not too wet.
4. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the first growing season.
5. Fertilize the plant with balanced organic fertilizer in the spring.
6. Prune the plant after blooming to encourage bushiness.
7. Use organic pesticides or encourage natural predators to control infestations.