Meadow Clary
Salvia pratensis
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Meadow Clary (Salvia pratensis) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Western Asia, thriving in temperate regions. It is renowned for its striking blue to violet flowers that bloom on tall spikes, attracting a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are crucial for enhancing biodiversity in agroecological systems. In regenerative agriculture, Meadow Clary serves as an understory plant in food forests, contributing to soil health through its deep root system that aids in soil aeration and nutrient cycling. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent and antiseptic properties. Meadow Clary is also valued for its aromatic leaves, which can deter certain pests, making it a beneficial companion plant in guilds with vegetables and other herbs.
Growing Details
Meadow Clary thrives in full sun and well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and lavender, which enhance pollinator attraction and pest deterrence. Avoid overwatering, as Meadow Clary is drought-tolerant once established. Harvest leaves in the morning after dew has dried for optimal flavor. Store dried leaves in
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Scented Plant
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Meadow
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Colouring
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Salvia pratensis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and Western Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
middle
of July for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
beginning
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The leaves of Meadow Clary can be used sparingly as a flavoring in salads and cooked dishes. They have a slightly bitter taste and should be used fresh. The plant is not commonly consumed as a staple food.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, Meadow Clary has been used in herbal medicine for its astringent and antiseptic properties. It has been employed to treat sore throats, digestive issues, and as a mild sedative. The leaves and flowers can be used to make infusions or tinctures. Caution is advised for pregnant women due to potential uterine stimulant effects.
health concerns: Pregnant women should avoid using Meadow Clary medicinally due to its potential uterine stimulant effects.
other uses: The plant can be used as a natural dye, producing a range of colors from its flowers and leaves. It is also valued for its aromatic properties and can be used in potpourri.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Salvia pratensis</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Salvia pratensis
common names: Meadow Clary; Meadow Sage; Meadow Salvia
family: Lamiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Salvia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 25ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Low
hardness:
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
(6/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 10 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 1.0 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Meadow Clary thrives in full sun and well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants include yarrow and lavender, which enhance pollinator attraction and pest deterrence. Avoid overwatering, as Meadow Clary is drought-tolerant once established. Harvest leaves in the morning after dew has dried for optimal flavor. Store dried leaves in
Potential Disturbances: Meadow Clary is generally pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids and slugs. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use copper barriers or diatomaceous earth to deter slugs. Companion planting with garlic or chives can also help repel pests.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...