Scarlet Sage

salvia splendens

Also known as: ["Red Sage","Firedance Sage"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Salvia Category: Flowers

Overview

A vibrant, herbaceous perennial often grown as an annual, known for its brilliant red flowers and bushy foliage.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Salvia
Botanical Name: Salvia splendens

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 4–6 weeks during growing season.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust for intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; move indoors if outdoor conditions are extreme.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or soil issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; use sheer curtains for indoor protection.

Watering

every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings.

Soil

well-draining, fertile potting mix with added organic matter

pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild heat but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 2 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer, reducing frequency in winter

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove spent flowers and leggy stems.

Tools

Clean pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Salvia splendens may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Salvia splendens can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage from pests or diseases, impacting the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Salvia splendens are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can reduce photosynthesis and weaken the plant if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Salvia splendens is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Salvia splendens is not considered toxic to cats. No significant toxic effects or physiological impacts have been reported.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive ingestion should be avoided. Keep plants out of reach to prevent overconsumption.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Salvia splendens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets to prevent overconsumption, though toxicity is not expected.
Humans
Non-toxic

Salvia splendens is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption is not recommended. Always wash hands after handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Salvia splendens be watered?

A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 1-2 days during active growth.

Q: Does Salvia splendens attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Q: Can Salvia splendens be grown indoors?

A: While possible, it thrives best in outdoor sunny locations with good air circulation.

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 5–7 days, allowing soi
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Clary Sage
View
Geneva Bugle
View
Hop-leaved Hemp-nettle
View
Pyrenean Horminum
View