Hot Lips Sage (Salvia microphyla 'Hot Lips')
Hot Lips Sage is a colorful, long-blooming perennial prized for its eye-catching red and white flowers and aromatic green foliage. Blooming from late spring through fall, this pollinator-friendly plant attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees while adding vibrant color to borders, cottage gardens, and containers.
Also Known As (AKA):
- Salvia microphyla 'Hot Lips'
- Hot Lips Salvia
- Littleleaf Sage
- Baby Sage
- Autumn Sage
This easy-care perennial thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soil. Its unique flowers often display a striking combination of red and white, though bloom coloration may vary with temperature and seasonal conditions. Once established, Hot Lips Sage is drought tolerant and provides months of continuous blooms.
- 🌺 Distinctive red and white flowers
- 🌿 Fragrant green foliage
- ☀️ Thrives in full sun
- 💧 Drought tolerant once established
- 🦋 Attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds
- 🌸 Long bloom season from spring through fall
Note: Prune lightly throughout the season to encourage continuous flowering and maintain a compact shape. Hardy in USDA Zones 7–10.
Growing Zones: 7–10 outdoors
| Mature Height: | 2–3 ft. |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun |
| Mature Width: | 2–3 ft. |
| Botanical Name: | Salvia microphyla 'Hot Lips' |
| Growth Rate: | Fast |
| Bloom Time: | Late Spring through Fall |
| Type: | Flowering Perennial |
FAQ's
How tall does Hot Lips Sage grow?
Hot Lips Sage typically grows 2 to 3 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide, forming a compact, bushy mound.
When does Hot Lips Sage bloom?
It blooms from late spring through fall, producing abundant red and white flowers for many months.
Does Hot Lips Sage attract pollinators?
Yes, it is highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators.
What growing conditions does Hot Lips Sage prefer?
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and is highly drought tolerant once established.
Why are some flowers all red while others are red and white?
Flower coloration can vary depending on temperature and seasonal conditions, ranging from solid red to the classic red-and-white pattern.
