Pineapple sage (Salvia elegans) is an aromatic herb valued for its culinary uses, ornamental appeal, and ability to attract pollinators. Its leaves, which emit a distinct pineapple scent when crushed, are edible and can be used in teas, salads, and desserts. The vibrant red, tubular flowers, typically appearing in late summer and fall, also serve as a sweet addition to dishes and are a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies. Propagating pineapple sage from cuttings offers a rewarding method to expand your garden or share this plant with others.
When to Propagate Pineapple Sage
The optimal period for propagating pineapple sage from cuttings is during its active growth phases, typically from spring through early fall. Increasing temperatures and ample light during these seasons stimulate vigorous growth, which aids root development. Taking cuttings while the plant is actively growing ensures the best chance of establishment before extreme temperatures.
Taking Cuttings
Choose healthy, non-flowering shoots that are not overly woody. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings, typically 4 to 6 inches long, are ideal. Make a clean cut just below a leaf node—the point where a leaf or branch emerges—using sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears. This area contains cells ready to develop into roots.
Remove leaves from the bottom 2 to 4 inches of the cutting, ensuring at least two or three leaves remain at the top. This minimizes moisture loss through transpiration and prevents submerged leaves from rotting, which can lead to fungal issues. While some gardeners use rooting hormone, pineapple sage often roots successfully without it. The cutting is then ready for its rooting medium.
Rooting Cuttings
Pineapple sage cuttings can be rooted effectively in either water or a rooting medium. For water rooting, place the prepared cuttings in a glass or jar filled with fresh water, ensuring that the submerged portion is free of leaves. Position the container in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Change the water every few days to maintain oxygen levels and prevent bacterial growth, which can hinder root development.
For soil rooting, select a well-draining potting mix, such as peat and perlite or a 50:50 mix of perlite and washed sand. Insert the cut end 1 to 2 inches deep into the mix, ensuring at least one leaf node is buried. Firm the soil around the cutting for support. Maintain consistent moisture without overwatering.
Covering the pot with a clear plastic bag or dome helps maintain high humidity, creating a favorable environment for root formation. Roots typically develop within a few weeks.
Caring for New Plants
Once roots develop, typically within two to eight weeks, new pineapple sage plants are ready for the next stage of growth. If rooted in water, transplant the cutting into a small pot with a well-draining potting mix. Cuttings rooted directly in soil can remain in their containers until they show active top growth and a robust root system.
Initially, provide the young plants with indirect sunlight to allow them to acclimate to their new environment. Gradually introduce them to brighter conditions, aiming for full sun exposure as they mature, which promotes vigorous growth. Consistent watering is important, keeping the soil evenly moist but avoiding saturation. Before permanently moving plants outdoors, especially in cooler climates, gradually harden them off by exposing them to outdoor conditions for increasing periods over several days to a week. This process helps them adapt to temperature fluctuations and wind.