(Salvia microphylla var. neurepia) Genus:  Salvia This native of the American Southwest and Mexico forms an evergreen shrub or shrubby perennial with dark, glossy leaves that are small (but slightly larger than most microphyllas) and softly toothed. It blooms off and on all summer, and again, more vigorously, in late summer and autumn, in blossoms of cherry-red. Its attractive foliage cloaks the plant to the ground, so it is well suited to the front of the border. It can grow to 4 feet tall and twice as wide. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Salvia are some of the showiest plants for containers and mixed borders. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them.   Care:  Provide moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Propagation:  Sow seed, or divide plants, in spring. Take cuttings spring through fall. Problems:  Powdery mildew, rust, stem rot, fungal leaf spots, whiteflies, aphids, mealybugs, spider mites.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Native, Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Red Uses Beds and Borders, Container, Cut Flower, Ground Covers, Suitable as Annual Style Cottage Garden, Rock Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Perennials