Pineapple sage is a shrubby perennial with bright green, ovate pointed leaves that smell like fresh pineapple when crushed. It is very showy and bears whorls of vibrant red flowers in summer.
Pineapple sage is frost tender and in cold climates, will die back in winter. Prune it back at the beginning of spring. It needs full sun, well-drained soil and is a good container plant. The red flowers are attractive to Sugar birds. Use pineapple sage in the center of beds and at the back of beds, where it will not hide other plants.
Pineapple sage is a popular plant all over the world - it is native to the oak and pine scrub forests in the highlands of Mexico and Guatemala.
Harvest and parts used
The leaves and flowers.
Culinary
Pineapple sage leaves are edible and can be steeped in hot water to make a herbal tea.
The flowers are reminiscent of Honeysuckle and make a colourful addition to salads, fruit cocktails or any garnish. Their vibrant
red colour compliments many dishes. They can be sugared and used to garnish cakes or cookie platters.
Fresh sprigs of pineapple sage can be added to cold drinks and fruit salads. The fresh or dried leaves will give a sage-like aroma to
pork dishes.
Medicinal
Pineapple sage has anti-depressant and anti-anxiety properties and will balance the nervous system. It is used extensively in Mexican traditional medicine, especially for the treatment of anxiety.
Pineapple sage can also benefit digestion, heartburn and is a general tonic.
