Salvia splendens SCARLET SAGE (10 seeds)

Scarlet Sage is a perennial plant native to South America, specifically Brazil. In temperate climates, it is cultivated as an annual plant.
It belongs to the large Lamiaceae family. Its size varies from 30 to 60 cm in height.

Its distinct square stems bear beautiful glossy green leaves that grow in opposite pairs. They have an elongated heart shape with small serrated edges. This foliage grows very densely, giving the plant the appearance of a well-furnished small bush.

The flowers grow at the top of the stems, forming tall, straight spikes that rise above the foliage. These flowers are packed closely together, creating the impression of a very showy plume. While bright red is the most famous color, purple, pink, or white varieties also exist. Even when the flower falls, the small calyx that held it remains colored on the stem for a long time, prolonging the plant's beauty.

Scarlet Sage seeds from Salvia splendens are small, round, and brown in color.

- Uses:

The long, bright red floral spikes are the defining feature of this beautiful herb. The explosive color of its flowers creates an intense visual impact in the garden. This spectacular variety is used mainly as an ornamental plant and has the advantage of a long flowering period.

This species is perfect for creating colorful flower beds and planters. It requires very little maintenance. Thanks to its regular growth habit, it is the perfect candidate for defining flower beds or pathway borders.

It is often chosen for landscape compositions or public gardens. It is an essential and accessible ornamental plant for beginners or flower enthusiasts.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The ideal time to sow Scarlet Sage is in May when the warmth begins.
• Sow the seeds in a tray of good horticultural soil.
• Cover them with only 2 to 3 millimeters of fine soil, press down firmly, and water gently.
• Place the tray in a warm greenhouse at a minimum of 25°C.
• Germination generally begins 2 to 3 weeks after planting.
• When the seedlings reach 8 to 10 cm, transplant them separately into large pots or directly into the garden soil.

- Substrate:

Scarlet Sage prefers light, nutrient-rich, and very well-drained soil to prevent root rot. A mix of 85% good horticultural soil and 15% sand ensures vigorous growth.

- Light Exposure:

A full sun location is essential to guarantee intense flowering and vivid colors all summer. However, it accepts partial shade in the hottest regions to prevent the foliage from wilting.

- Temperature:

Native to warm regions, it absolutely does not tolerate frost and dies as soon as temperatures drop below zero. It thrives when the thermometer stays above 20°C during the day.

- Watering:

The soil must remain constantly fresh, as this sage fears drought, which immediately stops flower production. Regular watering at the base of the plant, without wetting the leaves, is recommended. Mulching is ideal to prevent the soil from drying out.

- Propagation Methods:

It can be reproduced by seeds but also by stem cuttings taken at the end of summer.