Salvia splendes or escarlet sage. C13

Salvia splendens (Red Salvia)

Description
Salvia splendens, commonly known as red salvia, is a highly ornamental herbaceous plant valued for its upright flower spikes in vivid red tones, although cultivars also exist in white, pink and purple. It has green, oval, slightly glossy leaves and forms compact, well-shaped clumps. It is widely used in flower beds, borders and containers due to its strong visual impact and long flowering period.

Origin
It is native to Brazil, where it grows naturally in warm and humid climates.

History
Salvia splendens was introduced to Europe in the 19th century as an ornamental plant. Since then, it has become one of the most popular salvias in ornamental and urban gardening thanks to its ease of cultivation, reliability and continuous flowering throughout the warmer months.

Curiosity
Despite its intense red colour, Salvia splendens is not used for culinary purposes, unlike other salvia species. It is highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Care
It prefers full sun or bright partial shade. It grows best in fertile, loose and well-drained soils. It is sensitive to cold and does not tolerate frost. In mild climates it may behave as a short-lived perennial, but it is usually grown as an annual.

Watering
Regular watering is required, especially during hot periods, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Prolonged drought can negatively affect flowering.

Pruning
Removing spent flower spikes is recommended to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. At the end of the season, the plant can be cut back or removed if grown as an annual.