Greek Sage, Greek oregano

Salvia fruticosa

Physical Characteristics

Salvia fruticosa is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Europe - C. and E. Mediterranean.

Habitats

South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Condiment Tea The leaves are used as a spice or as an adulterant of sage (S. officinalis)[183]. Somewhat inferior in quality to sage but it is easier to grow indoors[183]. The leaves make up 50 - 95% of commercially dried sage leaves[238]. A fragrant tea, called 'fascomiglia' is made by infusing the leaves[148, 200].

Medicinal Uses

Antihydrotic Antiseptic Antispasmodic Astringent Carminative Cholagogue Depurative Expectorant Febrifuge Stimulant Tonic Vasodilator The leaves are antihydrotic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, cholagogue, depurative, expectorant, febrifuge, stimulant, tonic and vasodilator[4, 9, 13, 21, 165, 238]. They are used internally in the treatment of digestive and respiratory complaints, menstrual problems, infertility, nervous tension and depression[238]. This remedy should not be prescribed to pregnant women[238]. The leaves can be harvested as required and used fresh, or they can be harvested before the flowers open and dried or distilled for their essential oil[238].

Known Hazards

None known