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Is Sage a Perennial or an Annual?

Sage is a perennial.

More Info: Salvia officinalis L, more commonly known as common or garden sage, is a perennial shrub native to Asia Minor and southern Europe.  There are more than 700 species of Salvia, some of which are annuals, but the plant that is commonly thought of when using the term sage is a perennial.

Plant Characterization

Common sage is an upright shrub that grows two to three feet in height.  The stems are woody growing silvery green leaves with a velvety texture.  Depending on the variety, the plant will bloom with purple, blue, or white flowers.

Plant Requirements

Sage performs well in nitrogen-rich, loamy soil in full sun.  The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil but will flourish within a wide pH range of 4.2-8.3.  As a shrub you will need to pinch back the stems often during the first year to encourage strong branching.