Sage, Tricolor

Tricolor Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Tricolor')
A stunning ornamental form of culinary sage, Tricolor Sage is both beautiful and practical. With its variegated foliage in green, cream, and rose-pink, this hardy perennial is perfect for herb gardens, borders, and pollinator plantings. It retains all the aroma and flavor of common sage (Salvia officinalis), while adding vivid color and texture to edible and ornamental landscapes alike.

Key Characteristics

• Edible & Medicinal Leaves
  Like its green-leaved cousin, Tricolor Sage is used in cooking for its savory, warming flavor—especially with poultry, beans, and roasted vegetables. Medicinally, sage leaf has been used traditionally as a digestive tonic, anti-inflammatory, and for respiratory support, often prepared as a tea or gargle.

• Attracts Pollinators with Early Summer Blooms
  If left to flower, Tricolor Sage sends up tall spikes of lavender-blue blooms in May and June, beloved by bees, especially bumble bees. The flowers are a valuable nectar source in early summer, making it a beautiful pollinator plant for herbaceous borders and kitchen gardens.

• Ornamental Foliage for Edible Landscaping
  The variegated foliage provides color and contrast in mixed plantings, raised beds, or pathways. It makes an excellent edging plant, combining function with eye-catching design. Great for sensory gardens and Mediterranean-style plantings.

• Drought Tolerant & Low Maintenance
  Once established, sage thrives in hot, dry conditions with minimal care. It prefers lean, well-drained soils and should not be overwatered. Tricolor Sage is perfect for xeriscaping, sunny borders, and dry herb spirals.

• Excellent in Permaculture & Pollinator Systems
  While not native, sage plays a role in ecological planting by attracting beneficial insects, repelling some pests, and thriving with minimal input. It fits well into fruit tree guilds, dry food forests, and permaculture designs that mimic Mediterranean guilds.

Product Details

• Native Range: Mediterranean region (cultivar of Salvia officinalis)

• Plant Life Cycle: Perennial

• Sun Requirements: Full sun

• Soil Requirements: Dry to medium; well-drained, low-fertility preferred

• Mature Height: 12–24 inches

• Bloom Time: May–June

• Bloom Color: Lavender-blue

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9

Plant Tricolor Sage in full sun with excellent drainage. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth. Whether you're crafting an herb spiral, building a pollinator garden, or planting a beautiful edible border, this sage offers color, aroma, and resilience.