Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' (Hot Lips Sage) — Clump-forming, Bushy, Upright

Overview

Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' is a clump-forming, bushy, upright shrub in the genus Salvia, part of the Lamiaceae family, with aromatic, various foliage. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils and 6.0-7.5 pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, containers and pollinator gardens. It is native to Southeastern Arizona and Mexico.

About

Salvia microphylla, synonyms including Salvia grahamii, Salvia lemmonii and Salvia neurepia; the baby sage, Graham's sage, or blackcurrant sage, is an evergreen shrub found in the wild in southeastern Arizona and the mountains of eastern, western, and southern Mexico. It is a very complex species which easily hybridizes, resulting in numerous hybrids and cultivars brought into horticulture since the 1990s.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia microphylla

About the genus

Salvia is the largest genus of plants in the sage family Lamiaceae, with just under 1,000 species of shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and annuals. Within the Lamiaceae, Salvia is part of the tribe Mentheae within the subfamily Nepetoideae. One of several genera commonly referred to as sage, it includes two widely used herbs, Salvia officinalis and Salvia rosmarinus.

Wikipedia contributors, "Salvia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Salvia

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy
Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrub
Habit: Clump-forming, Bushy, Upright
Foliage: Aromatic, Various
Height: 1.2 m
Suggested uses: Borders, Containers, Pollinator gardens
Native to: Southeastern Arizona, Mexico
Fragrance: Mildly aromatic leaves

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil, drought tolerant once established, avoid overwatering
Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
Propagation: Softwood cuttings, Seed
Pest resistance: Slugs, Snails, Aphids
Disease resistance: Powdery mildew

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'?

Prefers well-drained soil, drought tolerant once established, avoid overwatering.

Where is the best place to plant Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'?

Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' need?

Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. It prefers 6.0-7.5 soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.