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Pruning guide · Herb
Clary sage: when and how to prune
Salvia sclarea
Clary sage is best pruned in August–September.
| Pruning months | August–September |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees and butterflies |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Clary sage: when to prune it?
After flowering, in August–September. No real pruning is needed: it is mainly a matter of cutting off spent spikes.
Clary sage: how to prune it?
- Cut spent flowering stems back to just above the leaf rosette if you do not want seed.
- If you want seedlings, leave two or three spikes until the seed is ripe and brown.
- After early cutting back, a plant sometimes forms a new rosette and flowers for another year, but do not count on it.
- Remove dead plants, roots and all, in autumn.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: August–September.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Clary sage flowers in June–August, when it attracts bees and butterflies.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Caution: The leaves are sticky and the scent lingers on your hands for a long time: wear gloves if you would rather avoid that.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Clary sage · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.