Any reference to medicinal or culinary use of plants or plant parts should in no way be considered an endorsement by The Ocala Food Forest or its staff. Research is crucial in safe and proper consumption or experimentational use of any plant.
Plant Information
| Scientific Name: | Salvia coccinea |
| Family Name: | Lamiaceae (Mint family) |
| Common Name(s): | Tropical Sage, Scarlet Sage, Blood Sage |
| Size: | 2 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide |
| Plant Type: | Perennial herb, often grown as an annual in cooler climates. |
| Origin/Geographic Distribution: | Native to Mexico, Central America, and the southeastern United States. |
| Native to: | Mexico and Central America |
| Planted range in the USA: | Commonly planted in the southern states such as Florida, Texas, and California |
| Conservation Status: | Not listed as threatened or endangered |
Cultivation
| Planting: | Best planted in spring after the threat of frost has passed. |
| Sun Exposure: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type: | Well-drained, fertile soil; adaptable to various soil types. |
| Soil pH: | 6.0 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral) |
| Water Requirements: | Moderate; regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. |
| Fertilizer Requirements: | Feed with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. |
| Pruning Requirements: | Prune regularly to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. |
| Growth Rate: | Fast |
| Companion Planting: | Complements other drought-tolerant plants and herbs; good companions include Lavender and Rosemary. |
Tolerance and Hardiness
| Drought Tolerance: | Moderate; can withstand short periods of dry conditions once established. |
| Frost Tolerance: | Limited; can tolerate brief, light frosts but needs protection from severe frost. Tolerates down to about 30°F (-1°C) to 25°F (-4°C) |
| Heat Tolerance: | High; thrives in hot temperatures up to about 90°F (32°C) to 100°F (38°C) |
| Wind Tolerance: | Moderate |
| Salt Tolerance: | Low; not suitable for coastal gardens with direct salt exposure |
| USDA Plant Hardiness Zones: | 7b-11 |
Flower and Fruit Information
| Fruit Type: | Not significant; the plant is grown for its flowers |
| Harvest Time: | N/A |
| Fruit Description: | N/A |
| Edible Plant: | Yes, the flowers are edible. |
| Edible Parts: | Flowers |
| Medicinal: | Not commonly used for medicinal purposes. |
| Flower Color: | Bright red |
| Flower Shape: | Tubular |
| Fragrance: | Mildly aromatic |
| Flower Bloom Time: | Summer to fall |
| Bloom Duration: | Continues for several months, especially in warm climates. |
| Pollination: Self or Other? |
Self-pollinates, bees and hummingbirds, enhancing pollination. |
Wildlife
| Attracts: | Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, which are drawn to its vivid flowers. |
| Pollinators: | Bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies are key pollinators for Salvia coccinea. |
| Problematic Pest: | Generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids and whiteflies. |
Health and Safety
| Toxic: | No, Salvia coccinea is not toxic and is safe around children and pets |
| Poisonous Parts of Plant: | None |
| Toxic to Humans: | Not toxic |
| Toxic to Animals: | Non-toxic; safe for pets and wildlife |
| Plant Diseases to be aware of: | Watch for fungal diseases in humid conditions; ensure good air circulation. |
Tropical Sage/Red Salvia (Salvia Coccinea)
Salvia coccinea, commonly known as Tropical Sage, is an enchanting presence in any garden, bringing with it a splash of vibrant color and a hint of the exotic. This perennial herb, distinguished by its shrub-like stature, flourishes in a palette of brilliant hues, from fiery reds to delicate pinks and pure whites. The flowers emerge in whorls along tall spikes, rising above the foliage and creating a lively display that lasts throughout the year in warmer regions.
For those new to gardening, Tropical Sage offers not only visual delight but also a welcoming habitat for local wildlife. Its nectar-rich blossoms are beloved by hummingbirds and butterflies, transforming your garden into a bustling hub of activity and beauty. The sight of these creatures flitting and feeding among the flowers adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the garden experience. Whether you are looking to create a vibrant border, a focal point in a mixed bed, or a naturalistic setting, Salvia coccinea fits seamlessly into various garden designs.
Adding a Tropical Sage to your outdoor space means embracing a plant that continues to give back throughout the seasons. Its enduring blooms and the effortless charm make it a favorite among both novices and experienced gardeners alike. Embrace the lively spirit of the tropics with Salvia coccinea and watch as your garden transforms into a colorful paradise that invites both admiration and wildlife. So why wait? Let this spectacular sage inspire your next garden adventure and bring continuous joy and color to your outdoor sanctuary.
Companion Planting
For Salvia coccinea (Tropical Sage), creating a harmonious companion planting setup enhances both aesthetic appeal and ecological balance. Here’s a detailed guide to selecting companion plants that thrive alongside Tropical Sage, categorized into Florida Native and Florida Friendly plants:
Florida Native Plants
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia pulchella)
Zone Range: 8-11
Benefits: Drought-tolerant and attracts a variety of pollinators which can benefit neighboring plants like Salvia coccinea.
Use: Excellent for adding bright splashes of color and for naturalizing areas.
Blue Porterweed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis)
Zone Range: 9-11
Benefits: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, which helps with pollination of nearby plants.
Use: Ideal for borders and pathways where its sprawling habit can be appreciated without overpowering Salvia coccinea.
Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
Zone Range: 4-9
Benefits: This climbing vine attracts hummingbirds and beneficial insects.
Use: Can be used on trellises or fences near Salvia coccinea for vertical interest.
Florida Friendly Plants
Pentas (Pentas lanceolata)
Zone Range: 9-11
Benefits: Known for its ability to attract butterflies and hummingbirds, enhancing pollination for all garden plants.
Use: Works well in mixed beds for continuous blooms and color contrast.
Mexican Heather (Cuphea hyssopifolia)
Zone Range: 9-11
Benefits: Drought-resistant and attracts pollinators, serving as a good groundcover around taller plants like Salvia coccinea.
Use: Ideal for filling in spaces and creating a lush underplanting.
Golden Dewdrop (Duranta erecta)
Zone Range: 9-11
Benefits: The vibrant flowers and attractive berries attract birds and butterflies, adding more wildlife interactions.
Use: Suitable for background planting in a mixed border, providing a height contrast to Salvia coccinea.
Tips for Implementation
Consider Light Requirements: All chosen plants should thrive under similar light conditions to ensure uniform growth and flowering.
Soil and Watering Needs: Group plants with similar soil and moisture requirements to promote health and reduce maintenance.
Aesthetic Considerations: Choose plants that offer contrasting textures and colors to create a visually engaging garden that blooms throughout the seasons.
This selection of companion plants not only boosts the visual appeal of your garden but also supports a healthy ecosystem, making your gardening both beautiful and beneficial.