Species scarlet sage

scarlet sage

Salvia splendens

Scarlet Sage (Salvia splendens) is a species of sage with vibrant red blooms that can be seen from far away. This native of South America does best in the sun and can grow to heights of 2 feet. This hardy plant is also easy to grow and maintain making it an ideal choice for novice gardeners or those with limited space. Its bright blooms attract a variety of birds and butterflies that add an extra element of beauty to the garden. It can be grown as a bush or in containers, making it incredibly versatile. Scarlet Sage is the perfect addition to any garden or landscape as it will surely be a stand-out!

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 11

Flowers:

Red Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

black Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Scarlet sage needs to be consistently watered once the soil feels dry to the touch. During the summer months, the plant should be watered 2 to 3 times per week and in the winter, it should be watered once a week. When watering, it is important to make sure to provide enough water that the soil is soaked through to a depth of at least a few inches. Be careful not to over-water the plant, as this can cause root rot and other issues. During the hottest days of summer, it may be necessary to provide extra water.

sunlight

Scarlet sage is an annual plant that requires 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive. For optimal growth, the sunlight should be brightest in the morning, and it should be partial shade or indirect light in the afternoon. Generally, those living in North America should aim to give the plant at least 4 hours of direct morning sun, including 2 hours at the peak of the day. It should be placed in a southern-facing window, patio or deck, or any other sunny location. As the summer months arrive, it is important to give the plant some shade during the hottest part of the day, as direct sunlight during those times can lead to scorching and wilting.

pruning

Scarlet sage should be pruned back regularly throughout the growing season to keep the plant in good shape and encourage new growth. For best results, prune the plant back in early summer, just as the blooms have begun to fade. Prune the plant back by at least 1-third of its height, removing any dead or damaged growth. Take care to avoid pruning the unopened buds. This will help promote new and colourful blooms in the following season. Prune the plant regularly throughout the summer and into early autumn, until mid or late autumn, when it’s time to prepare the plants for winter dormancy.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Salvia splendens is usually in late summer or early fall, typically between August and October.

Starts Flowering

Scarlet sage typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Scarlet sage typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Salvia splendens is usually in late summer or early fall, typically between August and October.

Hardiness Map