Scarlet Sage

Best Growing Environment

Scarlet Sage (Salvia splendens), also known as Red Sage, is a versatile and resilient plant that thrives in warm climates. It prefers a sunny location but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter regions where afternoon shade can help prevent the leaves from scorching. Scarlet Sage thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0 to 7.0). The plant does well in garden beds, borders, and containers, making it suitable for both urban and rural settings. It is important to provide good air circulation around the plants to reduce the risk of fungal diseases, especially in humid environments.

Common Names

Scarlet Sage is commonly known by several names, including:

• Red Sage
• Tropical Sage
• Bedding Sage
• Scarlet Salvia

Average Height and Diameter

Scarlet Sage typically grows to an average height of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm), though some varieties can reach up to 36 inches (90 cm) tall. The plant generally has a bushy growth habit with a spread or diameter of about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm). Its size makes it an excellent choice for adding vibrant color to the middle or front of garden beds and borders.

Growth Rate

Scarlet Sage has a moderate to fast growth rate, especially in warm, sunny conditions. It can establish quickly from seeds or transplants and begins flowering within a few months of planting. The plant continues to grow and bloom throughout the growing season, providing continuous color until the first frost. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can encourage more blooms and help maintain the plant’s neat appearance.

Sun Requirements

Scarlet Sage thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce its best blooms and maintain a compact, bushy form. While it can tolerate partial shade, especially in regions with intense summer heat, too much shade can result in leggy growth and fewer flowers. For optimal performance, plant Scarlet Sage in a location where it will receive morning sun and afternoon shade if grown in very hot climates.

Cold Hardiness

Scarlet Sage is a tender perennial in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11, where it can survive year-round. In cooler climates (zones 8 to 9), it is often grown as an annual, as it cannot tolerate frost. The plant will die back with the first frost but can be replanted each year in spring after the danger of frost has passed. In milder climates, it may reseed itself, allowing new plants to emerge the following spring.

Water Requirements

Scarlet Sage prefers regular watering, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant has moderate water needs and should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Overwatering should be avoided, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and keep the roots cool during hot weather.

Detailed Fertilizing Guide

Scarlet Sage benefits from regular fertilization to support its rapid growth and prolific blooming. At the time of planting, incorporate a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil, with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. During the growing season, a water-soluble fertilizer can be applied every 4 to 6 weeks to promote continuous flowering. If the plant's growth appears sluggish or the leaves show signs of yellowing, a high-nitrogen fertilizer can be used to boost leaf development. Organic options, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can also be added to the soil to improve fertility and structure.

Planting Guide

To plant Scarlet Sage, choose a location with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. If planting in garden beds, space the plants 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth. For container planting, select a pot with good drainage and use a high-quality potting mix. Transplant seedlings or young plants after the last frost date in spring. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball, place the plant in the hole, and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots. Regular deadheading will encourage more blooms and keep the plant looking tidy throughout the growing season.

USDA Zone

Scarlet Sage is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11, where it can be grown as a perennial. In zones 8 to 9, it is typically grown as an annual due to its sensitivity to frost. In colder zones, Scarlet Sage can still be enjoyed as a summer annual, providing vibrant color from late spring until the first frost.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Scarlet Sage will thrive and bring vibrant red blooms to your garden or landscape throughout the growing season.