Identification and Reproduction

Identification:

• Meadow clary, also known as meadow sage, is an introduced perennial that grows between 0.5 and 1 metre tall. 
• It is a shrub-like sage that forms many stems (1-8) from a root crown. Stems bear very few leaves. 
• Leaves are primarly found at the base of the plant. They are a dull grey green, egg-shaped, covered in fine hairs, with a rough wrickly texture and are aromatic when crushed. 

• Flowers are found in spike-like racemes at the end of stems. They are bilabiate (two-lipped) and are deep lavender to blue in colour. Flowers are found in whorls of 4-8 flowers per node with small bracts under. 
• Blooms occur early in the summer but if conditions are appropriate will rebloom later in the season. 

Reproduction: 

• Primarily reproduces by seed but can also spread vegetatively. 

Habitat & Ecology

• Is well adapted to various moisture levels, capable of growing in dry and medium moist soils. 
• Prefers well-draining soils in full sun sites. 
• Can tolerate drought. 
• Thrives in gravelly and sandy soils. 
• Commonly found along linear corridors, in grasslands, crop fields, floodplains and mowed lawns. 
• Currently there are not any confirmed infestations in BC. 

Impacts

Ecological: 

• They displace native plant species. 
• Reduce wildlife foraging and habitat. 
• Quick to spread and cover areas extensively.

Management

Prevention is a high priority for this species. 

• Maintain good ground cover to slow the spread and prevent invasive establishment. 
• Read and carefully purchase wildflower mixes from reputable sources. 
• Do not buy, sell or plant meadow clary. 
• Learn to identify meadow clary. 
• Report this plant if you think you have seen it. 

Resources

Download the BC Invasive Species Alert on Meadow Clary here. 

Header photo (Adrian Michael).