Scarlet sage (Salvia splendens)

Also known as: Tropical sage, Bonfire salvia

**Scarlet sage (Salvia splendens)** is a perennial herb originating from Brazil. Its numerous small flowers are perfectly shaped to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, making it a common feature in ornamental gardening. This plant is widely used for decorative purposes and has become a staple in indoor flower arrangements, including those found in shopping centers.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Scarlet sage

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

40 cm to 1.3 m

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

Red White Pink Purple Orange Lavender

Images of Scarlet sage

Quickly Identify Scarlet sage

Vibrant flower spikes in fiery red hue distinguish scarlet sage at 1-3 feet (30-91 cm) tall.

Scarlet tubular flowers in dense whorls on 12-25 cm racemes define scarlet sage.

Dry schizocarp fruit splits into 4 chambers, each with a single nutlet.

Opposite, ovate leaves with crenate margins and glabrate surface adorn scarlet sage.

Sturdy, square stems with slight branching grow erect at 8-30 inches (20-76 cm) tall.

Scientific Classification of Scarlet sage

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Mint

Genus

Sages

Species

Scarlet sage

Planting and Growing of Scarlet sage

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

64-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Scarlet sage?

The watering amount for Salvia splendens should ideally be around 250 milliliters per session. This amount ensures that the soil is sufficiently moist but not waterlogged. The key is to aim for moist soil at a depth of about an inch. Always ensure water freely drains from the pot base to avoid stagnant water, which can harm the roots.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Scarlet sage? ›

What should I do if my Scarlet sage is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Scarlet sage? ›

How to save an overwatered Scarlet sage? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Scarlet sage?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

A sunny to partially shaded environment is ideal for Salvia splendens. With proper exposure, the plant displays lush growth and vibrant blooms, providing a stunning visual impact and thriving in your garden landscape.

What is the best type of sunlight for Salvia splendens? ›

How can I ensure my Salvia splendens receives enough light? ›

What benefits does ideal light exposure bring to Salvia splendens? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Scarlet sage?

Ideal Temperature: 64 ~ 75℉

Salvia splendens thrives in warm conditions, preferring an ideal temperature range of 64°F to 75°F. This temperature range supports optimal growth and flowering, ensuring that the plant maintains its vibrant color and robust foliage.

What Soil is Best for Scarlet sage?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Salvia splendens thrives in well-drained soil, enabling its roots to access essential nutrients and oxygen. This helps in preventing root rot and promotes healthy growth, ensuring vibrant flowers. Moderately fertile soil is vital for Salvia splendens, providing essential nutrients without overwhelming the plant. This balance ensures ample nourishment, supporting lush foliage and robust blooming. Maintaining consistent soil moisture is key for Salvia splendens. This plant benefits from even hydration, which supports its metabolic processes and fosters continuous, vibrant flowering.

How to Fertilize Scarlet sage?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Salvia splendens, use a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer at half strength. Apply approximately 250 ml per plant. Ensure that the soil is moist before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.

How to Prune Scarlet sage?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Ensure your pruning tools are clean and sharp before use. This helps prevent disease transmission and makes cleaner cuts, promoting healthier regrowth for your Salvia splendens. Be mindful not to over-prune, as excessive removal of foliage can stress the plant. Focus on removing dead or diseased parts, and limit trimming to about a third of the plant at any given time.

How to Propagate Scarlet sage plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer

Harvest seeds from mature Salvia splendens plants when the flowers have dried and developed seed pods. Make sure to collect them on a dry day to prevent mold and store them in a cool, dry place until ready for planting.

Use a well-draining potting mix for both seeds and cuttings. This typically involves combining equal parts of peat, perlite, and vermiculite to create an environment that retains moisture while also allowing excess water to drain away.

In spring, choose healthy non-flowering stems around 3-4 inches long for cutting. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to stimulate root development before placing them in the potting mix.

How to Repot Scarlet sage plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Salvia splendens gives signs it's ready for repotting when you observe roots growing out of the drainage holes, or if water stagnates on the surface longer than usual. Early spring is ideal as the plant is poised to burst into growth, recovering more swiftly after a move.

Select a pot about two inches larger in diameter than the current one, with drainage holes. This encourages healthy root development without excess soil that can hold too much moisture, potentially drowning the roots of your vibrant Salvia splendens.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, perhaps with some perlite or sand to enhance drainage. This type of soil ensures roots have access to air and won’t suffocate, preventing root rot, and keeps your plant flourishing with abundant flowers.

Toxicity of Scarlet sage

Is Scarlet sage toxic to cat?

Scarlet sage presents a moderate toxicity hazard to cats when consumed in significant quantities. Every aspect of the plant carries some risk, and consumption can result in discomfort or illness in feline companions. It is important for pet owners to keep an eye on their cats to prevent them from eating scarlet sage. If poisoning is suspected, prompt veterinary care is crucial to safeguard the health and well-being of the affected cat.

Is Scarlet sage toxic to dog?

Scarlet sage presents a mild toxicity risk to dogs. Although cases of poisoning are relatively rare, they can happen if a dog ingests large quantities of the plant. Every part of scarlet sage is deemed toxic and could lead to negative reactions in dogs. Signs of poisoning may manifest as gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting or diarrhea, and in certain instances, more serious reactions might occur based on the quantity consumed and the individual dog's sensitivity. It is vital for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets and restrict access to scarlet sage, particularly if they are known to chew on plants. If a dog does consume scarlet sage, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is essential to ensure appropriate treatment and management of any symptoms.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.