Scarlet Sage (Salvia Splendens)

Scarlet Sage

Features and Characteristics

Salvia splendens, commonly called scarlet sage, is native to Brazil. It is a clump-forming, tender perennial that typically grows to 1-2’ tall on square, upright stems. Features long-tubed, red-bracted, bright red flowers (to 2” long) in dense, erect, terminal racemes from summer to fall. Oval, serrate, dark green leaves (to 3” long). Cultivars are available in various shades of red, pink, blue, lavender, orange, white and bicolor. Many of the cultivars are compact selections growing 8-15” tall.

The genus name Salvia comes from the Latin word salveo meaning “to save or heal”, in reference to the purported medically curative properties attributed to some plants in the genus.

Specific epithet means splendid.

Care and Maintenance

Tender perennial that is winter hardy to USDA Zones 10-1 In St. Louis, grow as a warm weather annual in average, evenly moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Start seed indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date. Set out seedlings or purchased plants after last frost date. If desired, cut back and pot up several plants in fall or take cuttings in late summer for overwintering in a bright but cool sunny window.

Scarlet Sage (Salvia Splendens) Requirements

Hardiness zone	10 - 11
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Uses

Beds, borders, cottage gardens, cutting gardens. Compact selections are good for edging and containers.

Scarlet Sage (Salvia Splendens) Details

Common name	Scarlet Sage
Botanical name	Salvia Splendens
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Lamiaceae
Hardiness zone	10 - 11
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Red
Flowering period	June - Frost
Height	1 - 2 Ft.
Width	0.75 To 1.50 Feet