Sage was a sacred ceremonial herb of the Romans. Sage is found on many continents. The Chinese valued it for use in teas, and the American Indians used it for medicinal purposes. Description Sage has square, downy stems that become woody after the second year. The paired leaves are 2 inches long and grayish green with soft, velvety hairs and pronounced veining underneath.
Yellow blotches appear on old leaves.
The tiny ovoid seeds are dark brown. Pests and disease Root rot, slugs, spider mites, spittle bugs, and wilt. Cultivation Sow in spring and transplant to 2 feet apart when seedlings are 4 inches tall. The site should have well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Keep the soil moist when the seedlings are young.