Neurepia Sage (Salvia microphylla var. neurepia): Cherry-Red Blooms on Glossy Foliage

Neurepia Sage: Southwestern Native with Cherry-Red Flowers & Glossy Leaves

Salvia microphylla var. neurepia forms an evergreen shrub or shrubby perennial native to the American Southwest and Mexico. Its dark, glossy, softly toothed leaves (slightly larger than typical microphylla) cloak the plant to the ground. It blooms off and on all summer, then more vigorously in late summer and autumn with cherry-red blossoms. Grows to 4 feet tall and twice as wide.

Outstanding Qualities

• Cherry-red flowers summer through fall
• Dark, glossy, softly toothed evergreen foliage
• Foliage cloaks plant to ground—great for front of border
• Native to Southwest U.S. and Mexico
• Drought tolerant
• Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies

Growing Conditions

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

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

Height:	3–6 ft.
Spread:	6–10 ft.
Bloom Time:	Summer to fall
Flower Color:	Cherry red
Foliage:	Dark, glossy, evergreen
Tolerance:	Drought tolerant
Uses:	Borders, containers, cut flowers, groundcover, rock gardens