Salvia officianalis, as the Latin name implies, is the original aromatic foliage used for centuries to flavour stuffing, meats and even make sage tea. of course, nothing says stuffing like good old Garden Sage. Garden Sage rivals many of its ornamental Salvia cousins during its three to four week bloom period. Flowers of common sage are extremely attractive to butterflies and bees. There are several varieties of sage with different coloured flowers and even variegated leaves (some fine for kitchen use), although none are as hardy as the common sage. It is suitable for herb gardens, container gardening, perennial gardens, and cottage gardens.