Salvia
| (Labiatae/Lamiaceae). Sage. Genus of about 900 species of herbaceous perennial and semi-evergreen or evergreen shrub. Grown for their tubular two-lipped brightly coloured flowers and aromatic foliage. Some are rhizomatous or tuberous. Distributed worldwide in temperate and tropical regions (except very hot, humid areas) they usually grow in sunny sites, including dry meadows, rocky slopes, scrub, light woodland and moist grassland. Leaves of some may be used for flavouring foods as they are frequently aromatic and sometimes hairy. Square stems with opposite pairs of simple to pinnate, entire, toothed or scalloped leaves. Branching, upright habit. Sages are effective in a sunny border, light woodland or wildflower meadow being attractive to bees. Well drained, moderately fertile, moist soil in sun or part shade best.
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