Pineapple Sage — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Salvia elegans |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 14–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 18.3–23.9 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 90–120 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| Mature height (cm) | 91.4–152.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 61–91.4 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 8–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Cutting |
Growing directions
Root stem cuttings in moist potting mix in spring and plant after all frost danger has passed in full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil; pineapple sage is a large-leaved Mexican native with a striking, true pineapple fragrance that makes it one of the most popular ornamental-culinary herbs for Gulf Coast and zone 8–11 gardens. The soft, bright-green leaves are used fresh in fruit salads, herbal teas, cocktails, and desserts where the pineapple-mint flavor adds an unexpected tropical note; the long stems are also attractive in floral arrangements. Brilliant scarlet tubular flowers appear in late fall and winter in warm climates, making pineapple sage one of the best late-season hummingbird plants for southern gardens. In zone 8 it may freeze to the ground but re-emerges from the roots in spring; take cuttings before first frost in colder climates to overwinter indoors.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0