Hot Lips Salvia Plant

The Hot Lips Salvia Plant has got the absolutely, most perfect name, though describing the flowers can take more than a few words. The lips of the flower are actually white, sometimes very pale pink and even sometimes completely red. Known to attract butterflies, the pouty lower lip is accented by vivid red, hot pink or in some cases can be variegated red, pink or white. Considered a bi-color, it's been discovered that the color of the flowers on this Salvia seems to have a lot to do with both the daytime and nighttime temperatures, which means you can have two different single-colored flowers or different combinations of bi-colored flowers, all on the same plant!

Our Salvia Plants are cultivated with care and are free from harmful pesticides, making them a safe and stunning addition to your garden. Guaranteed to arrive healthy and ready to thrive!

Planting Instructions:

• - Best planted in spring or fall for optimal root establishment
• - Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for mature growth and airflow

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.5
• - Prefers well-drained soil, tolerates poor or sandy soils

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply when first planted, allowing soil to dry between waterings
• - Once established, Salvia is drought-tolerant and thrives with minimal watering

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage vigorous growth and blooming
• - Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in weak, leggy growth

Pruning and Training:

• - Deadhead spent blooms to encourage further flowering
• - Cut back in late fall or early spring to maintain shape and promote new growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Salvia is generally pest-free, though monitor for aphids or spider mites in very dry conditions
• - Ensure good air circulation to prevent any fungal issues, though Salvia is highly disease-resistant

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms from late spring through summer with vertical spikes of blue, purple, red, or pink flowers

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 4-9, tolerates both heat and cold once established

Companion Plants for Salvia:

• - Lavender: Complements Salvia with its fragrant, drought-tolerant nature and soft purple flowers
• - Echinacea: Adds vibrant color and height to pair with Salvia’s spiky blooms
• - Coreopsis: Provides a continuous display of yellow flowers that contrast beautifully with Salvia’s cool tones
• - Achillea: Complements Salvia with its delicate clusters of flowers and pollinator appeal
• - Rudbeckia: Adds bold yellow blooms that enhance the overall summer display of Salvia