This smooth perennial evergreen, subshrub with woody stems has aromatic, soft grey-green leaves and pretty, blue to purplish flowers. It’s a garden staple that prefers full sun and is very drought tolerant once established. It’s intense, robust pine-like flavour can be used fresh or dried to flavour stuffing or to rub on meats before grilling. It can infuse vinegars, oils or butter and is also used in aromatherapy. The flowers attract pollinators, so it’s worthwhile to let them go to flower. Sage's light blue flowers and striking foliage make them a beautiful flower border.

• Companion planting: tomato, broccoli, cabbage, kohlrabi, cauliflower, carrot, rosemary and lavender.