Hot Lips

About

Salvia greggii 'Hot Lips' is a popular cultivar of autumn sage renowned for its striking bi-colored flowers. The blooms are primarily bright red with a white "lip" or throat, though this coloration can vary with temperature. They often shift to solid red in hotter weather and may appear more white or pinkish in cooler temperatures. The flowers are tubular and appear in whorls along the stems. The plant itself is an upright, bushy shrub with aromatic, medium-green, ovate leaves that are typically about 1 inch long. It blooms prolifically from late spring through fall, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies. It is a drought-tolerant and relatively low-maintenance perennial.

Planting

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or sow directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed. Seeds require light to germinate, so sow on the surface of the soil and press gently. Optimal germination temperature is 70-75°F (21-24°C). Space plants 18-24 inches apart. Salvia greggii prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be waterlogged. For transplants, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and plant at the same depth as it was in its container.

Care

Water regularly until established, then reduce watering as it is drought-tolerant once mature. Overwatering can lead to root rot. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune in late spring or early summer to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading spent flowers can prolong blooming. In colder climates, it may die back to the ground and resprout in spring. Protect from strong winds. Pests are generally not a major issue, but watch for spider mites and whiteflies in hot, dry conditions.