Salvia Hot Lips

Salvia Hot Lips creates brilliant lasting colour over a long flowering period and is great for those sunny, drier positions.

Salvia ‘Hot Lips’ is a popular variety of Salvia microphylla (Littleleaf Sage), known for its unique bicolor red and white flowers that resemble puckered lips. It’s a favorite in gardens for its long blooming period, drought tolerance, and attraction to pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Quick Facts About Salvia ‘Hot Lips’

• Botanical Name: Salvia microphylla ‘Hot Lips’
• Common Name: Hot Lips Sage
• Plant Type: Perennial (often grown as an annual in cooler climates)
• Hardy: Can survive mild winters but may die back in colder areas
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil; tolerates dry conditions
• Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Bloom Time: Spring to frost
• Flower Color: Red and white (sometimes solid red or white in different temperatures)
• Height & Spread: 2–3 feet tall and wide
• Attracts: Bees, butterflies
• Deer & Rabbit Resistance: Yes

Growing and Care Tips

• Pruning: Lightly trim in early spring to shape and encourage bushy growth.
• Watering: Allow the soil to dry between watering; avoid overwatering.
• Fertilizing: Not necessary in rich soil, but occasional feeding can boost blooms.
• Winter Care: In colder zones, mulch around the base or grow in containers to bring indoors.

Interesting Fact

The flower color of Salvia ‘Hot Lips’ can change with the temperature:

• Cooler weather: More red
• Warmer weather: More white
• Mid-season: Red and white mix