Clary, Annual clary
Salvia viridis

Family: Lamiaceae or Labiatae

What it is like

Salvia viridis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Height (m): 0.5

Where it is found

Rocky places and other dry habitats, always on limestone.

S. Europe.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Leaves - raw or cooked. They are very aromatic and are added to salads, soups and cooked greens. They are also used as a flavouring. Seed - cooked or used as a flavouring. The leaves and the seeds, when added to fermenting liquors, greatly increase the potency of the brew. An essential oil is obtained from the plant and is used for flavouring certain beers and wines.

Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.

Condiment: the various plants that are used as flavourings, either as herbs, spices or condiments.

Medicine

Rating: 2

The leaves and flowering stems are aromatic and antiseptic. They make a good gargle for treating sore gums.

Antiseptic: Preventing sepsis, decay or putrefaction, it destroys or arrests the growth of micro-organisms.

Aromatic: Having an agreeable odour and stimulant qualities.

Other

Rating:

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Requires a very well-drained light sandy soil in a sunny position. Prefers a rich soil. Plants can be killed by excessive winter wet. The plant is strongly aromatic. The flowers can be air-dried and used as everlasting flowers. A good bee plant. Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer.

Propagating it: Seed - sow March/April in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in early summer.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Annual

Hardiness: 0-0

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

S. horminum.