Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'
Hot Lips Sage
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Height
- 24 to 36 in
- Width
- 24 to 36 in
- Flower color
- Red and white bicolor tubular flowers that may appear all red or all white at times
- Foliage color
- Bright green, small aromatic leaves forming a dense, bushy mound
- Bloom time
- Late spring through fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low to moderate
- Maintenance
- Low, shear lightly after heavy bloom cycles to encourage fresh growth
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 7 to 10
- Wildlife
- Hummingbirds, bees, butterflies
About this plant
Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' bears tubular flowers that open white at the base and deepen to bright red at the tips, often shifting in balance as temperatures change. The blooms rise above small, aromatic, mid-green leaves that form a neat, lightly textured canopy. Flowering begins in late spring and continues into fall, reflecting its origins in southwestern North America and its selection from naturally occurring forms adapted to long blooming seasons.
In garden settings, 'Hot Lips' fits well into borders, containers, and mixed perennial beds where steady color supports warm-season designs. It also works effectively near paths and patios, offering reliable flowering and an informal, welcoming presence throughout the growing months.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Shasta daisies · Asters · Catmint · Coreopsis · Bearded irises · Bee balm
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
