Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'

Salvia microphylla, also known as Littleleaf Sage, is a close cousin to Salvia greggii, but with smaller leaves.  This bushy perennial salvia produces masses of bicolor blooms in a striking red and white pattern. The upper petals of the flower is pure white, while the lower “lip” is a bright cherry red. Plants bloom for months on end; from spring through frost.

When the nights warm in summer, the new flowers are all red with an occasional solid white one. As fall approaches, the flowers again are bicolored red and white. Foliage often turns a burgundy color in fall. The nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Best flower production in full sun but can tolerate light partial shade. Drought tolerant once established. Deer and rabbit resistant.

Height: 2'-3'
Spread: 2'-3'
Bloom: Early summer to frost.
Light: Full Sun, Part Sun 
Water: Medium
Zone: 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
Origin: southwest U.S., Mexico