Salvia officinalis (Common Sage)

Native across many regions worldwide, this mint-family genus includes annual and perennial herbs as well as shrubs. Leaves grow in opposite pairs and are often aromatic. Tubular flowers open into an upper and lower lip, with garden forms offering a wide range of colors. Many attract bees and other pollinating insects. Culinary members include sage and rosemary, grown for their fragrant leaves. Most garden varieties prefer sunshine and freely draining soil. Several introduced members have naturalized in Australia. Photographed in Bogotá, Colombia.