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Plant Profiles / Salvia 'Hot Lips'
Best for potsOutdoorFloweringPollinator friendlyDrought tolerantPet friendly

Salvia 'Hot Lips'

Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' · Baby sage
Red-and-white bicolour flowers on an aromatic shrub that flowers for months.
Full sunLight
WeeklyWater
Very easyCare level

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Sun.

Water

Weekly
DryWet
Moderate.

Humidity

Low
LowHigh
Dry.

Temperature

-5–38°C (23–100°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.

Growth

Fast
SlowFast
60–90 cm.

Soil

Free-draining
LeanRich
Potting mix.

Fertiliser

Spring
RarelyOften
Light.

Pet safety

Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Safe.

About this plant

From Mexico. Flower colour shifts with temperature; tough and drought tolerant.

Best spots

Sunny pots and balconies.

Plant facts

Botanical nameSalvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'
FamilyLamiaceae
OriginMexico
Plant typeShrub
Mature size60–90 cm
Growth rateFast
FlowersRed and white
ToxicityNon-toxic
PropagationCuttings

Seasonal care calendar

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Prune
FloweringPrune

Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.

Troubleshooting

All redHeat.
LeggyPrune.
RotWet.
FewSun.
WoodyCut back.

Common questions

Colour change?

Temperature.

Bees?

Yes.

Pets?

Safe.

Prune?

Late winter.