Herb Sage – Icterina (Salvia officinalis)

Description

Sage (Salvia officinalis) ‘Icterina’

Sage ‘Icterina’ is a striking variegated cultivar of common sage, prized for both its ornamental value and culinary uses. This evergreen subshrub features crinkled, oval leaves with irregular golden-yellow margins and sage-green centres, creating a bright focal point in herb gardens and mixed borders. Reaching a modest height of 45-60cm with a similar spread, ‘Icterina’ forms a compact, bushy habit that responds well to regular trimming.

In early summer, the plant produces whorls of small, lilac-blue flowers on upright stems, attracting bees and butterflies to the garden. For best results, plant in well-drained soil in a sunny position, though it will tolerate partial shade. ‘Icterina’ requires minimal watering once established and thrives in poor to moderately fertile soil.

This sage variety is somewhat less hardy than the plain green type, occasionally struggling in harsh winters. In colder regions of the UK, provide protection or grow in containers that can be moved to sheltered locations. Regular pruning in spring encourages bushy growth and prevents the plant from becoming woody and leggy.