Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' – Cherry Sage

Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' – Cherry Sage

Hot Lips is one of the most beloved and recognizable ornamental sages — a garden showstopper that produces whimsical bicolor flowers in red and white, mimicking a pair of lips, throughout summer and fall. The flowers can also appear as solid red, solid white, or the classic bicolor combination, often varying with temperature — cooler weather tends to produce more vivid red and white contrast. The shrubby, evergreen habit with small, aromatic leaves is attractive year-round, and the plant is exceptionally easy to grow. Deer and gopher resistant, drought tolerant once established, and irresistible to hummingbirds and butterflies.

Key Features:

• Whimsical red and white bicolor blooms — also solid red or white; summer through fall
• Color varies with temperature — more vivid contrast in cooler weather
• Evergreen, aromatic shrubby habit — attractive year-round
• Deer and gopher resistant; drought tolerant once established
• Outstanding hummingbird and butterfly plant
• Excellent for borders, containers, and cut flowers

Growing Details:
Height: 2–3 ft | Spread: 2–3 ft
Exposure: Full sun to part shade | Water: Low–moderate
Bloom time: Summer–fall | Bloom color: Red, white, or red and white bicolor
USDA Hardiness Zone: 8–11