Claims of the edibility of steppe sage vary depending on who you ask. Without a doubt, this plant is not the well-known common sage, Salvia officinalis in Latin, but merely a relative.
Woodland sage is not just a treat for insects
But the steppe sage (lat. Salvia nemorosa) is also edible and is said to have a certain healing power. However, the effect is very different depending on the variety of steppe sage. There is nothing wrong with using the flowers as an edible decoration, for example. For healing purposes, however, you should use the recognized medicinal herb Salvia officinalis. Bees and other insects like this decorative plant very much.
The care of steppe sage
The steppe sage is very warm. Give it a location that is as bright and rather dry as possible, preferably in full sun. But even in the light shade you can still enjoy the colorful flowers. The soil should be humic and permeable and loamy-sandy, preferably mostly sandy. If it is too heavy and firm, mix in some humus and/or sand to loosen it.
If the steppe sage feels comfortable in its location, then it is quite easy to care for and undemanding. It only needs fertilizer twice a year and you should only water this plant during the flowering period, but then only moderately. The steppe sage tolerates occasional drought, but is very sensitive to waterlogging. Many varieties of steppe sage are more or less hardy.
Healing Competition: Common Sage
Common sage (lat. Salvia officinalis) is still cultivated in herb gardens for medicinal purposes. It can be used in many ways as a home remedy, but of course does not replace a visit to the doctor. Native to the Mediterranean region, it also grows quite well in our latitudes. With its anti-inflammatory and astringent (contracting) effect, it is the first choice for sore throats and inflammation in the pharynx.
The essentials in brief:
- not to be confused with Salvia officinalis
- edible
- Flowers can be used as edible decoration
- loves warmth and light
- water moderately
- Avoid waterlogging
tips
The steppe sage is cultivated as an ornamental plant, for tasty teas or healing applications they prefer to plant the common sage (lat. Salvia officinalis).