From the Latin 'salvere,' to be in good health, to cure, to save. Sacred ceremonial herb of the romans. Description Square stems which become woody after the 2nd year. Leaves are in pairs with yellow blotches on old leaves and pronounced veining underneath. The fruit is tiny, dark brown, ovoid seeds.
Leaves have a slight balsamic flavor.
Cultivation Sow in late spring. Thin to 20 inches when seedlings reach a height of 3 inches. Prune heavily in spring to prevent seed set. Cut back after flowering and replace woody plants every 4-5 years. Companion planting Sage in general are said to improve the growth of carrots, marjoram, strawberry and tomato.