How to Grow and Care for Pineapple Sage

Pineapple sage, or Salvia elegans, is a distinctive herb known for its late-season blooms and aromatic foliage. When crushed, its leaves release a fragrance remarkably similar to pineapple, making it a unique addition to gardens and kitchens. This plant produces slender, tubular red flowers in late summer or fall, which are a draw for hummingbirds and butterflies. Both the fragrant leaves and the sweet-tasting flowers are edible, often used to garnish desserts or steeped to make tea.

Pineapple Sage Planting and Growing Conditions

Light

For pineapple sage to flourish, it requires a location that receives full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. This exposure fuels its growth and intensifies the fragrance of its leaves. In regions with exceptionally hot summers, providing some afternoon shade can prevent the plant from drooping. A spot with bright morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon rays is an ideal compromise.

Soil

The plant thrives in well-draining soil that prevents water from pooling around its roots. It is adaptable to average garden soils but is highly intolerant of “wet feet,” which can lead to root rot. To improve drainage in heavy clay soils, incorporate organic matter like compost. When planting in containers, use a quality potting mix and ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Water

Consistent moisture is important when pineapple sage is first establishing its root system, so water regularly to help it settle in. Once established, it becomes more tolerant of dry conditions and can withstand brief periods of drought. An indicator of thirst is when the leaves begin to curl or wilt. Overwatering is a common issue, so allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Temperature and Hardiness

Pineapple sage is a tender perennial, meaning it can survive winters in milder climates, specifically USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11. In these warmer regions, the plant may die back to the ground after a frost but will regrow from its roots in the spring. In colder climates (zones 7 and below), it is treated as an annual because it will not survive a hard frost.

Fertilizer

This herb is not a heavy feeder and performs well without excessive fertilization. A light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring as new growth emerges is sufficient for the season. Amending the soil with compost at planting also provides a slow release of nutrients. Over-fertilizing can lead to lush, leafy growth at the expense of flower production.

Pruning and Harvesting

Pruning and harvesting are interconnected activities that maintain the plant’s health and shape. Regularly trimming encourages it to grow bushier and more compact, preventing it from becoming tall and “leggy” with sparse stems susceptible to wind damage. The process of pruning often involves pinching back the tips of the stems throughout the growing season. This action redirects the plant’s energy into developing more side shoots and leaves, resulting in a fuller form.

If the plant becomes overgrown, it can be cut back more significantly during its active growth. To harvest, simply snip off leaves and flowers as needed. The leaves are best used fresh to capture their distinct pineapple scent, while the edible red flowers have a sweet taste and make an attractive garnish for desserts and salads.

Overwintering Pineapple Sage

For gardeners outside its hardiness zones, bringing pineapple sage indoors before the first hard frost is a common method to ensure its survival. If the plant is in a container, it can simply be moved inside to a suitable location. For plants in the ground, they can be carefully dug up and potted.

Bringing the Plant Indoors

When preparing a plant to come inside, it is beneficial to prune it back by about two-thirds. This reduction in size makes it more manageable and helps it adapt to lower light conditions. Watering should be reduced during the winter months, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings than during the summer. Avoid harvesting leaves while the plant is overwintering to allow it to conserve energy.

Taking Cuttings

Taking cuttings in late summer or early fall is another effective way to propagate pineapple sage for the following year. This can be an easier alternative to digging up a large, established plant. Take four-inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems and remove all but the top few leaves. These cuttings can be rooted in a glass of water or planted in a moist growing medium. Once rooted, they can be grown as small houseplants in a sunny window until they are ready to be planted outdoors in the spring.

Common Pests and Diseases

Pineapple sage is relatively untroubled by pests and diseases when grown outdoors. Its natural aromatic oils can deter many common garden insects, and it is not a preferred plant for deer. The strong air circulation in a garden setting also helps prevent fungal issues.

Most problems occur on plants brought indoors to overwinter. The indoor environment can make them more susceptible to pests like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs, which thrive in warm, dry conditions. Regularly inspecting the leaves, especially the undersides, can help catch an infestation early.

Should pests appear, a strong spray of water can dislodge many of them, while an application of insecticidal soap is effective for more persistent problems. For fungal issues like powdery mildew, which can appear in humid conditions with poor airflow, improving air circulation around the plant is a primary corrective measure.