The 'Hot Lips' Salvia (Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips') is a vibrant, eye-catching perennial prized for its unique bicolor blooms and long flowering season. Native to Mexico, this salvia produces an abundance of tubular flowers that are typically red and white—often split with red at the tips and white at the base—though color patterns can shift with temperature and sunlight, sometimes resulting in all-red or all-white blossoms. The small, aromatic green leaves add another layer of interest, releasing a pleasant scent when brushed. This plant is a favorite among pollinators, attracting hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies throughout the warmer months.
'Hot Lips' is not only beautiful but also hardy and easy to grow. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for borders, pollinator gardens, or containers. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, offering long-lasting color with minimal maintenance. Regular deadheading can encourage continuous blooming from late spring through fall. Whether used as a standalone specimen or part of a larger mixed planting, 'Hot Lips' Salvia brings a cheerful and dynamic energy to any landscape.
At Moon Valley Nurseries, we offer free design consultation at all of our nursery locations with our expert designer team to make your landscaping goals a reality!
