Scarlet Sage

Fiery red spikes attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. A southern native wildflower that can take on hot, dry summers with grace. Flowers continuously from mid-summer into fall. Dramatic plants grow 24-36 inches tall, covered with flashy scarlet blossoms. Blooms first year from seed for us northerners. A perennial in zone 9-10. Naturalizes in most areas.

100 seeds 

PLANTING

Salvia coccinea

Tender Perennial  Zones 9-10

Germination: 7-21 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 65-75ºF.

Seed Planting Depth: 1/16" deep

Starting Indoors: Start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost. Provide 65-75ºF soil temperatures. Transplant after the last frost,12-18" apart. 

Sowing Outdoors: Direct sow after last frost, only in areas with a long growing season. Sow a few seeds 3-6" apart, thinning out to 12-18" apart. When thinning out try transplanting the seedlings into other places in the garden. Water seedlings regularly until established.

Growth Habit: Upright vase shape

Height and Width: 24-36" x 18-24"

Spacing: 12-18" apart

Light Needs: Full sun

Soil Needs: Average, well-drained

Approximate days to flower from seed: 120 days

Uses: Cut flowers, flower beds, wildflower and cottage gardens, attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. 

Care: Water seedlings regularly until established. Deadheading prolongs flowering. Pinch back early on to keep plants more compact if desired. Self-seeds in warmer climates.