Description Salvia ‘Hot Lips’ Salvia ‘Hot Lips’ This is an extraordinary selection, with tall stems adorned with cherry red and white flowers against a backdrop of aromatic mid-green foliage. Thriving best in sun-drenched, well-drained locations, this distinctive cultivar graces gardens with its abundant blooms throughout the summer months. As a quintessential cottage garden favorite, ‘Hot Lips’ infuses beds and borders with its charming allure. While the initial blossoms tend to display predominantly red hues, they gradually evolve, showcasing captivating color variations over time. Typically attaining a height and spread of 30-50cm, ‘Hot Lips’ adds a delightful touch to any sunny garden setting.For optimal growth, ensure Salvia ‘Hot Lips’ needs ample sunlight and well-draining soil. Regular deadheading promotes continuous flowering, while maintaining moderate moisture levels supports vigorous growth. When considering companion planting, ‘Hot Lips’ pairs well with other sun-loving perennials such as Stokesia, Solidago and Achillea. These plants share similar growing preferences, creating a harmonious blend of colors and textures in the garden, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeall. In case of severe winters propagate by taking cuttings in autumn. More Salvia for sale here About the Family Salvia, a vast and diverse genus in the sage family (Lamiaceae), enchants gardens and landscapes with its aromatic foliage and striking flower spikes. Comprising a wide range of species, from culinary herbs to ornamental perennials, Salvia is celebrated for its adaptability and aesthetic appeal. Renowned for its aromatic leaves, Salvia includes well-known culinary herbs like common sage (Salvia officinalis), adding flavour to a variety of dishes. Beyond the kitchen, ornamental Salvia varieties steal the spotlight with their showy blooms in hues of blue, purple, red, and white. The distinctive, lipped flowers arranged in spikes create a visual feast and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Salvia’s versatility extends to various garden settings, from herb gardens to borders and containers. With a preference for well-drained soil and ample sunlight, these plants thrive in diverse climates. Whether it’s the culinary allure of sage in the kitchen or the ornamental beauty of salvias gracing garden borders, this genus remains a favourite among gardeners. The ease of cultivation, coupled with its visual and fragrant delights, ensures that Salvia continues to hold a cherished place in horticulture, offering both practical and aesthetic rewards to enthusiasts world-wide.
