Clary Sage 'Vatican Pink'

An impressive biennial or short-lived perennial that makes a bold statement in the UK herb garden. 'Vatican Pink' is distinguished by its large, showy bracts in shades of soft pink and lilac, which surround smaller flowers. The foliage consists of broad, textured, grey-green leaves that release a powerful, heavy scent and have been used historically for medicinal and flavouring purposes. In the UK climate, it thrives in well-drained soil and a sunny position, often self-seeding to ensure its persistence in the garden. It is highly attractive to bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for a pollinator-friendly border. The plant typically forms a neat basal rosette in its first year before sending up tall, branching flower spikes in its second year. It is generally hardy across most of the UK, provided it does not sit in waterlogged soil during the winter months.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug.