Herb of the Month: Sage by Toby Amidor in In Season, September 9, 2012
If you thought all fresh herbs were past their prime by the fall, you’re be mistaken. Fresh sage is now in season!
Sage Basics
This green herb is native to the Mediterranean. Its name comes from the Latin word salvus, which means “safe” – a reference to the herb’s believed healing powers.
Common garden sage is grayish-green in color with narrow, oval leaves with a pebble-like surface. They have a pungent mint-like smell and taste. There are numerous varieties of the herb; some are for cooking with while others are ornamental. Varieties include Curly, Minima, Dwarf, Tricolor, Pineapple and White Edge. Pineapple sage has a strong pineapple smell while White Edge has a creamy color splashed on the green leaves.
Although fresh is only available during the late summer and fall, dried whole, crumbled or powdered sage is available all year round.
