Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

salvia purpurea

Salvia purpurea, also known as Salvia officinalis Purpurea or purple sage, is a striking perennial herb cherished by New Zealand gardeners for its deeply veined, soft, purple-tinted foliage and aromatic presence in the garden. Valued both for its culinary uses and ornamental appeal, salvia purpurea brings textural interest and vivid colour to edible and ornamental borders alike. Its resilient nature and subtle hues make it an essential addition to herb gardens, Mediterranean-style plantings, or wildlife-friendly patches eager to attract beneficial pollinators.

Salvia officinalis Purpurea (Sage Herb)

Sage Herb, Salviae officinalis, Salvia officinalis purpurea

Salviae officinalis Purpurea, commonly known as the familiar Sage Herb, plant is grown for its aromatic foliage and rich display of flowers from summer through autumn. During this time, it produces slender, flower spikes with small, purple flowers which sit neatly above the purple-grey leaves as it grows to 40 cm tall and the same wide. The leaves are often used for cooking, while the flowers are great for attracting butterflies and birds. Salvia officinalis Purpurea is ideal for herb gardens, mixed plantings, cottage gardens, borders, or container growing.

salvia-officinalis-purpurea-
  • Suited to regions:
    Subtropical, Temperate
  • Plant type:
    herbs
  • Height:
    40 cm
  • Spread:
    40 cm
  • Flowering time:
    Summer, Autumn
  • Garden uses:
    Borders, Containers, Culinary, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas
  • Garden styles:
    Backyard, City & Courtyard, Cottage, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
salvia-la-siesta-
Most Popular

Salvia jamensis La Siesta (Salvia La Siesta)

Salvia La Siesta is a variety of sage grown for its rich display of flowers from summer through autumn. It produces long and slender, flower spikes...

From$22.88
Salvia 'Santa Barbara' shrub in a garden with dark pink flowers.
Most Popular

Salvia Santa Barbara (Mexican Sage)

Salvia Santa Barbara, commonly known as Mexican Sage or Mexican Bush Sage, is grown for its rich display of flowers from summer through autumn. It...

From$26.93
Stunning, dark blue flowers on Salvia 'Blue Angel].
Most Popular

Salvia 'Blue Angel'

Salvia 'Blue Angel' is a beautiful perennial known for its soft blue flower spikes that appear generously across summer and autumn in New Zealand...

From$26.93
Salvia 'Riverton Red' plant with elegant red flowers and lush, green leaves.
Most Popular

Salvia 'Riverton Red'

Salvia 'Riverton Red' is a striking perennial prized for its vivid red flower spikes that bloom reliably from spring through autumn. This hardy, sun...

From$26.93
salvia-so-cool-violet-
Most Popular

Salvia So Cool Violet

Salvia So Cool Violet is a variety of Sage grown for its rich display of flowers from summer through autumn. It produces long and slender, flower...

From$26.93
Salvia officinalis Purpurea (Sage Herb)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring Salvia or herbs.

Search Salvia officinalis Purpurea (Sage Herb)

What Makes Salvia purpurea Unique?

Salvia purpurea is admired for more than just its fragrance. Its dazzling purple leaves and compact, bushy growth habit set it apart from common green-leaved sage varieties. During late spring through summer, spikes of delicate lavender-blue flowers appear, adding another layer of charm to this versatile plant. Drought-tolerant and hardy, salvia purpurea thrives in New Zealand’s varying climate—especially in well-drained soils and sunny positions. It’s perfect for sustainable, low-maintenance gardening.

Uses for Salvia purpurea in the Garden

This purple variety of sage is not only beautiful but also highly practical. Cooks enjoy fresh or dried salvia purpurea leaves, especially in savoury dishes, stuffings, and meat marinades. Its subtle flavour boasts less bitterness than classic sage, making it a popular choice for delicate recipes. In landscaping, it serves as a vivid highlight among silvers, greens, and blues—try pairing it with Mediterranean herbs like Thymus 'Pizza' and Origanum Bellissimo (Oregano) for a flavourful and visually striking combination.

How to Plant and Care for Salvia purpurea

Plant salvia purpurea in full sun for the deepest purples. Well-drained soil is essential; amend heavier clay with grit or compost to prevent root rot. Once established, this perennial needs minimal watering, making it ideal for sustainable and low-water-use gardens. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape, and remove older woody stems annually to encourage fresh, lush growth.

This sage is also fantastic for pollinator gardens, providing nectar and habitat for bees and butterflies. For added variety, plant alongside other vibrant salvias like Salvia 'Blue Angel', Salvia jamensis La Siesta (Salvia La Siesta), or the dramatic Salvia Santa Barbara (Mexican Sage).

Companion Plants for Salvia purpurea

Companion planting enhances your garden’s beauty and productivity. Pair salvia purpurea with neighbouring herbs such as Thymus citriodorus Aurea (Citrus Thyme), Thymus Doone Valley (Lemon Thyme Doone Valley), and Zingiber mioga (Myoga Ginger) for a fragrant, culinary haven. For a vivid perennial display, consider planting it alongside Salvia Riverton Red or the colourful Salvia So Cool Violet.

Why Choose Salvia purpurea?

With its spectacular purple foliage, versatile herbal qualities, and ease of care, salvia purpurea is the perfect addition to both experienced and beginner gardens in New Zealand. Whether you’re crafting a sensory herb border or searching for hardy pollinator-friendly plants, this stunning sage will reward you year after year. Discover the beauty and practicality of salvia purpurea and transform your garden into a thriving, aromatic haven.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

From trusted favourites like Photinia 'Red Robin' and Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) to fresh faces like Ficus Hillii (Australian Banyan), Baumea articulata, and Acer freemanii 'Jeffersred' — we’ve got you covered.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.9

429 Google reviews