Pineapple Sage: A Versatile Plant for Gardens and Health
What is Pineapple Sage?
Pineapple sage (Salvia elegans) is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. It is a perennial in USDA zones 8 through 11, but can be grown as an annual in colder climates. Pineapple sage gets its common name from the fact that its crushed leaves smell just like pineapple.
Is Pineapple Sage Edible?
Yes, pineapple sage is edible! The leaves can be steeped for teas, and the minty-tasting blossoms can be used as a garnish for salads and desserts. The leaves are best used fresh, but the flowers can also be used in jelly and jam concoctions, potpourri, and other uses.
Medicinal Benefits of Pineapple Sage
Pineapple sage has long been used as a medicinal herb. It has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, and has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including:
- Boosting the immune system
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving digestion
- Relieving pain
- Fighting cancer
How to Grow Pineapple Sage
Pineapple sage is a relatively easy plant to grow. It prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil that is consistently moist. Once established, pineapple sage is drought tolerant.
Pineapple sage is a semi-woody sub shrub that can get as tall as 4 feet (1 m.). It has red flowers that bloom in late summer to early fall. Pineapple sage grows rapidly in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Pineapple Sage and Wildlife
The tubular shaped flowers of the pineapple sage plant are a favorite of hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. This makes it a great plant to include in a butterfly garden or wildlife garden.
Companion Planting with Pineapple Sage
Pineapple sage can be planted with other sages to attract even more pollinators to the garden. Some good companion plants for pineapple sage include:
- Black and blue salvia
- Mealycup sage
- Purple sage
- White sage
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How to Grow Pineapple Sage in Containers
Pineapple sage can be successfully grown in containers. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes. Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix. Water the pineapple sage regularly, and fertilize it monthly during the growing season.
Is Pineapple Sage Poisonous to Dogs?
Pineapple sage is not poisonous to dogs, but it can cause stomach upset if eaten in large quantities.
Pineapple Sage Benefits
Pineapple sage has a variety of health benefits, including:
- Boosting the immune system
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving digestion
- Relieving pain
- Fighting cancer
Pineapple Sage Tea
Pineapple sage tea is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the benefits of this herb. To make pineapple sage tea, simply steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried pineapple sage leaves in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes.
Pineapple Sage Recipes
Pineapple sage can be used in a variety of recipes, including:
- Pineapple sage lemonade
- Pineapple sage iced tea
- Pineapple sage jelly
- Pineapple sage sorbet
Pineapple Sage and Hummingbird Gardening
Pineapple sage is a great plant to attract hummingbirds to your garden. The tubular shaped flowers are perfect for hummingbirds to drink nectar from.
How to Attract Butterflies with Pineapple Sage
Pineapple sage is also a great plant to attract butterflies to your garden. The bright red flowers are very attractive to butterflies.
Companion Planting for Pineapple Sage
Pineapple sage can be planted with other sages to attract even more pollinators to the garden. Some good companion plants for pineapple sage include:
- Black and blue salvia
- Mealycup sage
- Purple sage
- White sage
Growing Pineapple Sage in USDA Zone 5
Pineapple sage can be grown in USDA zone 5 with a little extra care. Plant pineapple sage in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Mulch around the plant in winter to protect it from the cold.
Pineapple Sage in Winter
Pineapple sage is not cold hardy and will die back in winter in most climates. However, the roots of the plant will survive the winter and the plant will come back in the spring.
