Fresh clary, also know as clary sage is an attractive flowering garden plant that keeps it flavor in cooking, provides a soothing scent in potpourris and produces an essential oil that has many used in herbal medicines. Zones 6 – 9, full sun, average, well drained soil. Can be propagated by division of 2-year-old plant early spring or fall, but is best raised by seed annually. Biennial or short-lived perennial, height 2 – 5 feet, upright, branches, squared stems with broad, oblong, aromatic leaves. Blooms June to July after first year, small, pale blue to lavender blossoms resemble garden sage. Usually free from diseases and pests.

When time to harvest, snip leaves for fresh use. Strips leaves and dry them on screens for use in herbal craft. The oil is distilled from the flowering tops. Clary has a sweet nutty scent. Use in potpourris with scents as juniper, lavender, cardomon, citrus, geranium, pine, bergamot, frankincense, coriander, sandlewood and jasmine. The essential oil is a complex mix of elements and is thought to have a particular affinity with the female cycle. It can be used in massage oil or in a compress for the relief of muscular cramps, aches and pains as well as indigestion. The soothing, sweet scent of clary has traditionally been used in gardens designed for relaxation. Plant it near garden seats or along a path.