About
A tender annual, with neat oval leaves and lax spikes of bright red flowers 2cm in length from summer to autumn.
About the genus
Salvia can be annuals, biennials, herbaceous or evergreen perennials, or shrubs. They have paired, simple or pinnately lobed, often aromatic leaves and 2-lipped flowers in whorls, forming simple or branched spikes or racemes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens, Mediterranean climate plants, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moderately fertile, light, well-drained, slightly acid, sandy soil in full sun or partial shade. See our video How to care for tender salvia for more advice
PruningCut back after flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 15-18°C in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), powdery mildews, verticillium wilt and foot and root rots