Late-blooming Pineapple Sage is Worth the Wait
A red flower that always is late to bloom in my garden, but always one of my favorites that is worth the wait, is the herb pineapple sage (Salvia elegans). My plant has the scarlet flowers which are in whorls with four blossoms at each node opening sequentially up the flower spike. Each 1-2” long flower has an upper lip and a spreading lower lip, typical of salvias.
Flowers are followed by small, dark-colored football-shaped seeds that fall out within a few days. The pineapple sage plant is found in gardens to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The crushed plant leaves smell like pineapple. Pineapple sage grows rapidly in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Mine was completely covered by mint, and once I pulled it, the pineapple sage plant really took off. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and when fresh can be used whole as a garnish or in salads or desserts. As an herb the leaves and flowers can be used to make a tea. Both leaves and flowers can also be used in jellies or for potpourri. It also makes a striking sage herbal vinegar.
We are finishing up this year and looking forward to 2024, there have been so many creative presentations. As NHS copresidents, Jill and I will be handing the gavel over to new President Jane McGee. I am looking forward to the continued success of learning more about the wonderful world of herbs!
- Co-President, Janet Lindsteadt