If there was one perennial that we would expect to see in every Pacific NW garden, it would be some form of Salvia. The family is huge and diverse, with most varieties having leaves covered in fine hairs, either tubular flowers or upright flower spikes (ensuring a steady stream of hummingbirds and bees), and a minty fragrance when the leaves are bruised. Pineapple Sage is in a class of its own, with bright green, pointed leaves that exude a pineapple fragrance when crushed or eaten, and is grown for its edible qualities as well as its extraordinary looks. Dense mounds of foliage may grow anywhere from one to four feet tall and two to three feet wide, providing a vivid green backdrop for scarlet red, tubular flowers that emerge in late summer to early fall. Fresh leaves may be used in salads or added to beverages, imparting a lovely pineapple flavor. The cut flowers are absolutely stunning in flower arrangements.

Considered a tender perennial, Pineapple Sage may winter over in the ground, but consider planting it in a container that can be moved to a sheltered spot during the coldest months for a return in the spring. This particular salvia is well worth the extra effort!