Image source

Sage, also known as ‘Salvia’ belongs to the genus of plants in the family Lamiaceae. The botanical name of the flower, Salvia originates from the Latin word ‘Salvere’ – meaning health, heal and to feel well. Found around the world from America and Asia to Europe, these perennial herbs are considered a miracle plant, known widely for its healing properties. They usually have slender, tubular shaped flowers that are rich in nectar, with leaves that exude a pleasant fragrance. The plant is highly valued across cultures not only for its numerous medicinal properties but also for its role in attracting positive energy, wherever it grows. Blooming abundantly, sage flowers are a favorite among flower enthusiasts and gardeners for their exquisite flowers.

What do Sage flower symbolize?

These low growing, evergreens have long stood for various qualities like long life, thoughtfulness, good health and wisdom in the language of flowers. Among herbalists and spiritual leaders, sage flower meaning has been associated with knowledge and divinity, often used in religious ceremonies and rites.

Throughout history, they have been used in traditional medicinal practices for curing snake bites, improve a woman’s fertility, treating dementia and to drive away evil spirits. For the ancient Romans, sage was considered a sacred plant used in rituals and referred to as a ‘holy herb’. Stories mention an elaborate harvesting ceremony of sage with the use of a special knife. Before beginning, the person gathering these flowers will have to first offer a food sacrifice to the gods and have clean clothes and feet. Romans are also said to have used these perennials as a local anesthetic and as a diuretic.

In the Bible, it is believed that Mary and infant Jesus hid in a sage bush while hiding from Herod the Great. The sage flower meaning also came to be linked with longevity, as ancient cultures believed eating sage was the key to eternal life and immortality. The British consider this versatile plant as one of the essential herbs among other culturally important herbs such as thyme, palsy and rosemary.

Celtic mythology and folklore also associate the flower with intelligence and immortality. They believed that it not only makes a person wiser but also improves their memory. A particular superstition says that the plant will start to wither when things are going bad in life. Pagan practitioners were thought to have believed that sage could ward off malevolent spirits and keep negative energies at bay.

What do the various colors of the Sage flower mean?

With attractive foliage and interesting flowers, it is no surprise that sage is cultivated throughout the world as ornamental plants. These beautiful perennials produce shades of pink, purple, blue and red- each with a significant symbolic meaning and significance.

Red sage flower: This Scarlet sage plant is known for its spiky, striking flowers. As with most red flowers, red sage flower meaning is closely linked to passion and adoration. This is the most popular variant grown globally and is traditionally associated with romance, desire and young love. Its vibrant red blossoms are said to symbolize forever mine feeling and is a popular flower among couples. In some cultures, they are also believed to expel negative energy, purify body and soul and usher in good fortune.

Image source

Blue sage flower: Traditionally, the blue sage flower meaning often symbolizes family and close friendship. While the red sage plant embodies a feeling of forever mine, the blue variant is associated with feelings of remembrance, missing and tribute. They are also said to represent good health, knowledge, healing and a long life.

Image source

Pink sage flower: In the language of flowers, the pink petals of the sage herb signify gentility, feminine grace, elegance and pure love. Delicate pink hues of this flower are also believed to represent sensitivity, youthful innocence and playfulness.

Image source

Purple sage flower: Similar to the color purple, purple sage flower meaning have become synonymous with success, grandeur and opulence. As they are often associated with royals and dignified people, they also stand for pride, honor and respect. A carefully curated bouquet of these dark flowers is sure to convey feelings of success and pride along with it.

Image source

Interesting facts and characteristics of the Sage flower

· During the 8th – 14th century, the word ‘sage’ in old French meant a knowledgeable, educated and skilled person.

· Sage is well known as a psychoactive herb. In Mexico, it is used in rituals for treating people owing to its hallucinogenic properties.

· The plant is also used for cooking purposes in some traditions, especially as seasoning. During thanksgiving, sage is one of the main stuffing ingredients for the turkey.

· Across cultures, sage is used in alleviating digestion problems and is also known to cure anemia, diarrhea and sore throat. The tea made from these flowers are said to be a remedy for menopause symptoms and headaches.

· When Black Death was wreaking havoc in Europe, this miraculous plant was one of the herbs used to protect the person against the plague.

· There is also a belief that sage is good for the brain. They greatly help in improving memory, power of reasoning as well as concentration. This is how the word sage came to be linked with a wise person.

· Sage leaves are a popular ingredient in herbal teas which serve as a cure for depression and symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

Best time to gift someone Sage flower

Sage flowers have always been a subject of mystery and magic, since historic times. They are a great gift to express your heartfelt emotions to your loved ones. Gifting sage flowers are sure to bring calmness, blessings, balance and good luck in the recipient’s life. For yoga and meditation lovers, sage can be a good option as it ushers in positivity and inner peace. Depending on its color, these extraordinary flowers have different meanings connected to it. Purple sage flowers can be presented as a gesture of romantic intent or as a symbol of admiration for someone you respect. You can also gift a bouquet of blue sage flowers if you are thinking about that special someone and want to convey how much you miss them.