African beach sage (Salvia africana-lutea) - seeds

Salvia africana-lutea, also known as brown sage or African golden sage, is a fascinating evergreen plant from the coastal regions of South Africa. It impresses with its felty, silvery-green leaves and unique orange-brownish flowers, which attract numerous pollinators. This drought-resistant sage species is not only a beautiful ornamental plant, but is also traditionally used for medicinal purposes.

Sowing instructions

Salvia africana-lutea is relatively easy to grow from seed as long as warmth and well-drained soil are guaranteed.

Sowing time: Spring to summer
Germination period: 2-4 weeks at 18-25 °C
Seeding depth: Plant 0.5-1 cm deep in loose, sandy soil
Planting distance: 40-60 cm
Location: Sunny, well-drained, dry soil
Pouring: Water moderately, avoid waterlogging
Slight soil moisture promotes germination, but the soil should dry out between waterings.

Harvest, use & storage

Salvia africana-lutea is not only an attractive ornamental plant, but also a valuable useful plant.

Harvest time: All year round, depending on growing conditions
Use: Dried leaves as tea, incense or in naturopathy
Storage: Dry the leaves in an airy, shady place and store in airtight containers
The leaves contain aromatic oils and are traditionally valued for their calming properties.

Tips and tricks

Pruning after flowering promotes bushy growth and renewed flowering.
This sage species is extremely resistant to drought and requires very little water.
In regions with frost, we recommend growing the plant in a tub to bring it indoors in winter.
Salvia africana-lutea attracts numerous pollinators such as bees and butterflies and is therefore ideal for semi-natural gardens.

Worth knowing

Salvia africana-lutea belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is closely related to the classic kitchen sage. Its special flower color, which changes from bright orange to rusty brown, makes it an eye-catcher in the garden. The plant has been used in South African folk medicine for centuries.