Mediterranean sage is an aromatic forb that grows as a biennial or short-lived perennial from a stout taproot. Plants develop rosettes the first year and typically bolt the second year, growing 1–3 ft (30–90 cm) tall with square stems. Rosette leaves are grayish-green, 4–12 in (10–30 cm) long, triangular, and have jagged margins. Stem leaves are opposite and decrease in size going up the stem. The branching inflorescences often resemble candelabras in shape. Each flower is ½–1 in (1–2½ cm) long and has five whitish petals distinctly fused into two lips. Each flower produces four smooth, brown nutlets.