Salvia elegans Pineapple

Salvia elegans, also known as Pineapple Sage, is a perennial plant that grows well in mild climates. It has a woody base and an evergreen undershrub. Gardeners and cooks love this sage for its light green foliage that tastes and smells like pineapple. It also produces large spikes of brilliant red flowers in autumn and sometimes in spring, as long as there is no frost during winter. Although this aromatic plant is not very hardy, it thrives in well-drained soil, even if it's occasionally dry, under milder skies. You can plant it in sunny flower beds, herb gardens, or in a large pot that can be stored during winter in colder climates.

Salvia Elegans belongs to the Lamiaceae or Labiate family, much like all salvias. This plant is a perennial that grows from rhizomes and is native to Mexico and Guatemala. It is often found in pine and oak forests at medium altitudes, which explains why it is not very hardy. The plant grows into a beautiful spreading clump composed of semi-woody, hairy stems. The stems carry triangular, velvety, vibrant green leaves that have a pineapple fragrance and flavour. The plant can grow up to 80 cm (31.5 in) to 1 m (3 ft 4 in) in height, and sometimes even more under the right conditions. It has a minimum diameter of 80 cm (31.5 in) if not damaged by frost. The flowering season occurs in October or November, and then again in March in open ground in mild climates or in a greenhouse in cold climates. The floral spikes are erect and branched, and they have slightly purplish square-sectioned stems which bear long, slender, scarlet tubular flowers. The flowers are surrounded at the base by a vibrant green sheathing calyx, and they are both nectar-rich and honey-scented. The hardiness of this species does not exceed -7°C (19°F), even in a protected location and in dry soil during winter.

Pineapple Sage is an excellent plant for flower beds due to its ornamental qualities. It typically grows in well-drained soils in a moderate to warm climate. This plant is unique and generous and pairs well with other perennials or annuals like shrubby artemisias with silver foliage, perennial chrysanthemums, or the last roses of the season. Its stunning blooms can be placed in front of a Small Winged Spindle Tree (Eunymus alatus compactus), a Smoke Bush (Cotinus), or a Plumleaf Spirea, and will enhance the flamboyant foliage of these plants. You can also plant it in a large pot on the terrace for easy access when cooking, and protect it from heavy frost during winter.

Culinary Uses:

The leaves of this particular plant can be used either fresh or frozen in ice cubes, and they are often incorporated into exotic dishes to enhance the flavour of pork, duck, veal, and other meats. In addition, the leaves can also be used in sweet and savoury recipes, and they can be used to make excellent herbal teas. The flowers of this plant are also edible, and they can be used to add a vibrant touch to fruit salads, cocktails, pastries, and sorbets.