Description
Whorls of tiny violet-blue lipped flowers on slender stems, grow from a mound of coarse textured foliage. Wild Clary, is a type of sage, also know as Vervain, and was once commonly found in wildflower meadows. Prefers neutral to alkaline soil and needs full sun. Best scattered in spring. Perennial. Flowers June – September. Leaves of this aromatic plant can be used in teas and the pretty flowers sprinkled in salads.

Where to find
Open grassland, sunny roadside banks, chalk downs, coastal shingle and sand dunes.

Distribution
Mainly concentrated in Southern England but also coastal areas heading further north.

Best Time To See
June, July, August, September

Did you know?
In medieval times, Wild Clary was traditionally sown on graves in the belief that it granted eternal life. The name ‘clary’ comes from ‘clear-eye’ as the seeds were soaked in water, to produce a soothing balm to cleanse the eyes.