Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans) is a perennial herb valued for its striking appearance and unique aromatic profile. Native to the highlands of Mexico and Guatemala, the foliage releases a distinct scent of fresh pineapple when crushed, which contributes to its common name. The plant produces tall spikes of tubular, bright red flowers in late summer and fall. These vibrant blossoms make it highly desirable as both a culinary ingredient and an ornamental shrub, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Establishing the Ideal Growing Environment
Successful establishment of Pineapple Sage requires adequate sunlight, ideally a location that receives full sun for at least six hours daily. In extremely hot climates, the plant benefits from afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorching. This herb requires a well-draining medium to prevent root issues. A loose, moist soil structure rich in organic matter supports rapid growth, and a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is preferred.
When planting, wait until the danger of frost has fully passed in the spring. Space individual plants about 24 to 36 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and to accommodate the mature size of this bushy subshrub.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Once established, Pineapple Sage requires consistent moisture, though it is somewhat drought-tolerant. Water deeply only when the top one to two inches of soil has dried out completely. Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot, especially in poorly drained areas.
The plant is a light feeder, and in rich, organic soil, additional fertilizer may not be necessary. If the native soil is poor, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or compost in early spring is sufficient to support vigorous growth. Monitor for common garden insects like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Seasonal Pruning and Overwintering
Pruning maintains a bushy shape and prevents the plant from becoming excessively tall or woody. To encourage a denser growth habit, pinch back the growing tips of young stems throughout the spring and early summer. This forces the plant to branch out laterally instead of focusing on vertical growth. In late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, perform a substantial cutback, removing older, woody stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Pineapple Sage is a tender perennial in USDA Zones 8 through 11, where it dies back after a hard frost but typically regrows in the spring. In Zones 7 and colder, it is usually grown as an annual because it cannot survive prolonged freezing temperatures.
To successfully overwinter the plant in colder regions, container-grown specimens should be moved indoors to a bright, frost-free location before the first hard frost. For plants remaining in the ground in borderline zones, applying a thick layer of mulch around the base in the fall provides root insulation. When overwintering indoors, cut the plant back by about two-thirds to manage its size and reduce stress.
Harvesting and Expanding Your Stock
The leaves and flowers of Pineapple Sage are edible and can be harvested once the plant is well-established, usually after six to eight weeks of growth. Harvest leaves in the morning after the dew has dried, as aromatic oils are most concentrated then. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at any time to ensure continued photosynthesis and growth. The fresh leaves are excellent for teas and infusions, while the bright red flowers make a mildly sweet garnish for salads and desserts. For long-term storage, leaves can be dried on screens in a well-ventilated area or frozen in ice cube trays.
Extending your stock is straightforward through propagation using softwood cuttings taken from non-flowering tips. Cuttings approximately four to six inches long root easily in water or a moist rooting medium, often without the need for rooting hormone.