Berggarten Sage Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten'
ABOUT
Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten', commonly known as 'Berggarten' sage, is a perennial herb distinguished by its compact and rounded habit. It showcases broad, silvery-gray leaves that are noticeably oval, almost round and somewhat wrinkled with a pebbled texture. The foliage has a soft, velvety feel to the touch. The coloration of the leaves adds an attractive, contrasting highlight in gardens and culinary settings. This variety of sage produces purplish-blue flowers that are arranged in whorls, rising on short spikes above the foliage when it blooms. The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, adding an additional layer of interest to the garden beyond its culinary uses. The overall appearance of 'Berggarten' sage is one of dense, lush greenery with a touch of soft, silvery sheen, complemented by delicate blooms, creating a pleasing aesthetic for both ornamental and practical applications.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Lamiaceae
Synonyms
Berggarten Sage, Garden Sage, Culinary Sage, Common Sage, Broadleaf Sage
Common names
Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten'.
ToxicityTo humans
Sage, specifically the Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten', is generally considered safe for human consumption in culinary amounts. Sage is commonly used as a kitchen herb, and there are no significant toxicity concerns for humans when it is consumed in amounts typically used for cooking. However, consuming sage in extremely large quantities could potentially lead to toxic effects due to the presence of substances like thujone. Symptoms of thujone poisoning can include vomiting, restlessness, vertigo, rapid heartbeat, tremors, seizures, and damage to the liver and nervous systems. It is important to note that such symptoms are rare and typically associated with the ingestion of sage essential oil or very large amounts of the plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Grey-green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Culinary uses: The leaves are often used in cooking for their savory, slightly peppery flavor.
- Aesthetic value: Its attractive foliage and blooms can enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Drought tolerance: It is well-adapted to dry conditions, requiring minimal watering once established.
- Pollinator attraction: Flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are important for pollination.
- Low maintenance: Requires little care and is easy to grow, making it suitable for novice gardeners.
- Herb garden staple: A popular choice for herb gardens due to its versatile uses in cooking and its hardy nature.
- Evergreen: In some climates, it remains evergreen throughout the year, providing constant greenery.
- Companion planting: It can be planted alongside other vegetables and herbs to help deter pests.
- Cultural significance: It has a history of use in various traditions and cuisines around the world.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant effects - may help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory properties - could potentially reduce inflammation in the body.
- Antimicrobial activity - has been shown to possess properties that can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Antispasmodic effects - may help to relieve spasms in the digestive system.
- Antiseptic qualities - commonly used for its potential to prevent the growth of microorganisms on the skin or tissue.
- Carminative action - could help to relieve flatulence and soothe the digestive tract.
- Estrogenic activity - contains compounds that might mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.
- Cognitive enhancement - some research suggests potential benefits in cognitive function and memory.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural hair dye: Sage, the common name of Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten', can be used as a natural hair dye to darken grey hair. A strong tea made from sage leaves can be applied to the hair for a subtle coloring effect.
- Fabric dye: The leaves of the sage plant can be used in the natural dyeing process, imparting various shades of green to wool and other natural fibers.
- Tooth cleaner: Sage leaves can be used to clean teeth. Rubbing the leaves directly on the teeth can help in removing plaque and freshening breath.
- Metal cleaner: A tea made from sage leaves can be used to clean and restore the shine to tarnished silverware and jewelry.
- Leafy decoration: The attractive foliage of the sage plant makes it suitable for use in floral arrangements and wreaths to add greenery and texture.
- Meat preservative: Sage has natural antimicrobial properties and can be used in the preparation of meats to help preserve them and impart flavor.
- Foot bath: A foot bath made with sage leaves can be soothing and can help to reduce foot odor due to its antibacterial properties.
- Pest deterrent: Sage can be planted in the garden to help repel certain garden pests like cabbage moths and carrot flies.
- Fireplace kindling: Dried sage branches make for aromatic kindling or can be added to a fireplace for a natural, pleasant scent.
- Ceremonial uses: Sage is commonly used in various cultures for purification ceremonies, its smoke believed to cleanse spaces and objects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sage is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Wisdom - Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten', commonly known as 'Berggarten' sage, is often associated with wisdom due to the Latin root "Salvia" coming from "salvere" meaning "to save" or "to heal", implying a deep knowledge of healing properties.
- Longevity - Sage has a reputation for promoting a long life, rooted in ancient belief systems and the plant’s use in traditional medicine to promote health and wellness.
- Protection - Historically, sage has been used in various cultures for its believed protective qualities against evil spirits and negative energies when burned as a smudge stick.
- Purification - The cleansing properties of 'Berggarten' sage come from its traditional use in smudging rituals, where it is thought to purify spaces and objects.
- Immortality - The plant's robustness and ability to survive in tough conditions have led to a symbolic connection with immortality and enduring through hardships.
WaterFor Berggarten Sage, water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. The exact frequency depends on the climate and soil conditions, but generally, watering every 1 to 2 weeks is sufficient. When you do water, aim to provide about 1 inch of water, which may equal approximately 0.5 to 1 gallons for a medium-sized plant. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant has well-draining soil and is not left sitting in water.
LightBerggarten Sage thrives in full sun, so place the plant in a spot where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate partial shade but will have fewer flowers and less dense foliage. The ideal spot is south-facing that gets ample morning and afternoon sun for the best growth and flavor development of the leaves.
Temperature'Berggarten Sage prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F during the day. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 15°F, making it hardy in cooler climates as well. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20°F can damage or kill the plant, so take measures to protect it during extreme cold.
PruningPrune Berggarten Sage to encourage bushy growth and prevent woody stems. Pruning in spring, after the last frost, is ideal. Trim back up to one-third of the growth to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Regular pruning, about once or twice a year, also rejuvenates the plant and promotes the growth of new, flavorful leaves.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Berggarten Sage, which is a common name for Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten', should be well-draining with a slightly alkaline to neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Incorporate coarse sand or perlite and compost into the soil to improve drainage and fertility.
RepottingBerggarten Sage should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth. Spring is the best time for repotting to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & MistingBerggarten Sage thrives in a wide range of humidity levels and does well in average home humidity. There's no need for high humidity; it prefers relatively dry conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in sunny spot, well-drained soil, minimal water.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, water sparingly.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten' is 'Berggarten Sage'. The life cycle of Berggarten Sage begins with seed germination, which requires well-drained soil and can occur in spring or late summer. The seedlings develop into young plants with characteristic grey-green, aromatic leaves. As an herbaceous perennial, Berggarten Sage establishes a root system and foliage the first year, with minimal or no flowering. In the second and subsequent years, the plant reaches maturity and produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers in late spring or early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. After flowering, seeding, and potential self-sowing, as weather cools in autumn, the plant prepares for dormancy, may die back depending on the climate, and then regrows from the rootstock the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Salvia officinalis 'Berggarten', commonly known as 'Berggarten' sage, is typically propagated in spring or early summer to allow the plant enough time to establish before the colder months. The most popular method of propagation is by cuttings. You take a cutting of about 2 to 4 inches (approximately 5 to 10 centimeters) from a healthy, non-flowering stem. Strip the leaves off the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Then, insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-drained soil mix. It's crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and to place the pot in a warm area with indirect sunlight. Rooting usually occurs within a few weeks, after which the new 'Berggarten' sage plant can be transplanted into the garden or a larger container.
