Texas Sage (Salvia coccinea): Red Hummingbird Favorite for Sun or Shade

Texas Sage: Versatile Tender Perennial with Deep Red Spikes

Salvia coccinea is an upright tender perennial (often grown as an annual) providing rich color for bedding schemes. Its deep red flowers bloom on 2–2.5 foot open spikes from summer to autumn. Plants grow about a foot wide with hairy, oval to heart-shaped leaves. In the north it takes full sun; in the south it prefers afternoon shade. Self-sows in warm climates.

Key Features

• Deep red flowers on tall spikes summer to fall
• Tolerates considerable shade (prefers afternoon shade in hot climates)
• Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
• Native to U.S. (Texas, Southeast)
• Self-sows readily in warm zones

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Moist but well-drained
• Water: Dry to medium
• Maintenance: Moderate

Propagation

Sow seed or divide in spring; take cuttings spring through fall.

Potential Problems

Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.

Quick Reference