Tricolor Sage - Salvia Officinalis - Edible Herb Plant - 4 inch pot

Tricolor Sage (Salvia officinalis ‘Tricolor’) is a delightful herb that combines both culinary and ornamental qualities. Here’s what you need to know about growing and caring for tricolor sage:

1. Appearance:

   • Tricolor sage stands out due to its unique leaves. The main color is green, but the edges are bordered with uneven splotches of white, and the interiors are splashed with shades of pink and purple.

2. Culinary Uses:

   • Tricolor sage is edible, and its flavor is similar to that of common sage. You can use its leaves interchangeably in any recipe that calls for sage.
   • If you’re not interested in culinary purposes, growing tricolor sage as an ornamental plant in your garden works well too.

3. Growing Conditions:

   • Sunlight: Tricolor sage thrives in full sun, although it can tolerate some shade.
   • Soil: It prefers drier, sandier soil and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline conditions.
   • Size: Tricolor sage typically grows to between 1 and 1.5 feet (0.5 m) tall and wide.
   • Drought Tolerance: These plants tolerate drought well.
   • Flowers: In midsummer, tricolor sage produces beautiful blue to lavender flowers that attract butterflies.
   • Cold Tolerance: Unlike green sage (which is winter hardy down to USDA zone 5), tricolor sage is less cold-tolerant and survives down to zone 6.

So, whether you’re looking to enhance your culinary creations or add visual interest to your garden, tricolor sage is a versatile and lovely choice!