This upright tender perennial provides rich color for annual bedding schemes where it is not hardy. Its deep red flowers are borne on 2- to 2.5- foot, open spikes from summer to autumn. Plants grow to about a foot wide and bear hairy, oval to heart-shaped leaves. Salvias are some of the showiest plants for containers, annual borders, and mixed borders. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them.
CareProvide moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It can take full sun in the north, yet it tolerates considerable shade (which it prefers in the afternoon in the south). Self-sows in warm climates.
PropagationSow seed or divide plants in spring; take cuttings spring through fall.
ProblemsPowdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.
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- Genus : Salvia
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Zones : 10, 8, 9
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Self Seeds
- Uses : Containers
- Tolerance : Deer Tolerant
- Moisture : Dry to Medium
- Bloom Time : Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer
- Growth Rate : Fast
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Maintenance : Moderate
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Flower Color : Red
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
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