The leaves of sage are its most distinctive feature. They are oblong, gray-green, and covered in fine, velvety hairs, giving them a soft, silvery appearance. The leaves have a slightly crinkled texture and are highly aromatic, with a strong, earthy, slightly peppery flavor.

Sage produces small, tubular purple flowers. The flowers bloom in spikes during late spring to early summer and are particularly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Sage thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow well. Sage is drought-tolerant and prefers to be on the dry side.

Salvia officinalis is a versatile and aromatic herb known for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Its distinctive silvery leaves and earthy flavor make it a favorite in gardens and kitchens alike, though its potent compounds require careful use in medicinal and concentrated forms.