Salvia officinalis Maxima

Salvia officinalis 'Maxima' is a cultivar of official sage. It is distinguished by its oversized leaves that can measure up to three times the size of a classic official sage leaf. It is a very hardy perennial plant that is both aromatic and ornamental. Easy to grow, this plant with medicinal properties can be grown in pots or in open ground. Its large leaves flavour fish, poultry, pork, sauces, and vegetables. Plant it in spring, in the sun, in well-prepared and properly drained soil. The leaves can be harvested from March to October.

Salvia officinalis 'Maxima' is a cultivar likely selected in Eastern Europe, but its origin remains uncertain. Its leaves are commonly used to decorate plates in Italy. It is also used in fritters, in a dough made from rice flour. This perennial plant has a bushy, compact, often spreading habit, and measures between 40 and 60cm (16 and 24in) in all directions. Its large ovate leaves, 7 to 8cm (3in) long, are green-grey, fuzzy, and very aromatic. It is hardy to -15°C (5°F). It can be grown in both vegetable gardens and ornamental gardens. Flowering depends on the climate. When it does occur, in May-June, it forms spikes of violet-blue flowers, which are popular with bees and other pollinators. Salvia officinalis belongs to the Lamiaceae family, like thyme, savory, and lavender.

The official sage was used in ancient times and was very present in the Middle Ages where it had its place in the herb garden. "Whoever has sage in their garden does not need a doctor" is a saying that demonstrates the medicinal properties of the plant, which is also called 'the saving plant'. Sage is renowned for its diuretic, tonic, antiseptic, antiperspirant, and antispasmodic properties.

In cooking, fresh or dried leaves are used to flavour fish, poultry, sauces, and vegetables. Add the leaves at the end of cooking to preserve their aroma. They can also be used in infusions.

Harvesting: The leaves can be harvested from March to October, ideally in the morning, by cutting the branches. Regular harvesting will promote the growth of new shoots. The fragrance will be more intense in spring, just before flowering.

Storage: Fresh sage leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. For longer storage, you can dry the branches in the shade and keep the leaves in airtight jars for several months.

Gardening tip: In the garden, mix different types of plants by placing sage in the middle of perennial flower beds or even in rock gardens. It will blend in perfectly. The strong scents of aromatic plants can often repel insects that may attack more delicate plants like certain roses.