Pineapple sage - pot ø10.5 cm (Salvia elegans)

Pineapple sage belongs to the lipflower family and is native to South America. The leaves are very aromatic and smell strongly of pineapple.

In Guatemala and Mexico this herb is used for a variety of medicinal purposes. In its countries of origin, this Salvia is a perennial plant but in colder Europe it is not fully hardy.

CULTIVATION TIPS:
Pineapple sage is a perennial plant but is frost sensitive. In our climate this Sage is usually used as an annual plant, but in a sheltered place with extra protection it can usually be overwintered. The plants can also be overwintered indoors in a cool light place. Put this plant in a spacious place in the open ground or in a large pot, in optimal conditions it can grow up to 1m high.

Pine sage likes a place in the semi-shade, be careful with a burning midday sun during the summer months. Give it enough water and if the plant is in a pot, fertilize it regularly. The Ananas sage is a real autumn bloomer. When almost everything else in the garden has finished flowering, this plant produces small edible red flowers.

To obtain a nice compact bush prune the plant several times in spring. After flowering, prune the plant to above the roots, in the spring it will sprout again.

CULINARY:
The leaves can be used both fresh and dried to make tea. Chopped fresh leaves can be added to salads, fruit salad, cold drinks or cake dough and give these dishes a refreshing flavor.

Dried or fresh leaves aromatize dishes with pork or lamb. The flowers are also edible, contain sweet nectar and add beauty to your dishes. Add a few flowers to tea, salads, cake or desserts.