Red vista

Salvia ‘Vista Red’ features dense spikes of brilliant red, tubular flowers which bloom continuously throughout the warm summer months. As with other members of the ‘Vista’ series, its vibrant blooms are borne profusely atop bushy, compact, heat tolerant plants. This terrific, high performing salvia is a form of scarlet sage, a bushy, tender perennial native to Brazil.

The branched stems of scarlet sage are clothed with oval, pointed, dark to medium green foliage with lightly scalloped edges. Its showy flowers appear when temperatures are warm and accommodating, continuing throughout the year in warmest climates. The long, tubular blooms are surrounded by equally bright and colorful calyces (outer bud coverings), and are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Though typically red-flowered, many cultivars exist in colors ranging from orange to pink, purple and white-flowered selections.

Plant scarlet sage in full to partial sun and fertile, well-drained garden loam which receives regular moisture. Afternoon shade is beneficial in hottest climates. Faded flowers should be removed periodically to encourage heavier blooming and to maintain a neat appearance. This classic bedding plant looks terrific when planted in groups, and mixes beautifully with other hot-colored, heat tolerant plants.