Tricolor
75d to harvest
Fragrant, soft-gray leaves are edged in creamy white and brushed through with warm lavender tones, creating a living tricolor that feels as luminous as it is aromatic. Tricolor sage forms an upright, tidy mound with a velvety texture and a distinctive, herbaceous flavor profile that shines in fragrant roasts, savory sauces, and infused vinegars—also lovely for fresh snipping and drying. Grow it for a garden centerpiece that rewards you with bold color and a steady stream of bloom-ready stems over the season.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 13a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Dec 15th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 75 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Surface |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 40 |
| Harden Off (days) | 7 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water tricolor sage during the main growing period (around the first 8–10 weeks)?
Water deeply after the top 1 inch of soil dries out; aim for moist-but-not-soggy soil rather than frequent light watering. Once established, Salvia officinalis tolerates drier conditions, so reduce watering further—especially in cool or overcast weather. Overwatering is a leading cause of root issues and weak growth in this herb.
How do I tell when my tricolor sage is ready to harvest (Salvia officinalis), and how should I pick?
You can start light harvesting once the plant has formed a solid framework of stems and leaves, typically around 70–80 days after sowing. Harvest in the morning before the heat, snipping stems just above a leaf pair to encourage bushy regrowth. Avoid stripping more than about one-third of the foliage at a time so the plant can keep producing.