Disclaimer: Please note that not all plants and trees are permitted in all residential areas. Homeowners are responsible for consulting their Homeowners Association (HOA) rules to ensure compliance before planting.
The Tropical Sage is a fast growing perennial wildflower native to Florida, reaching a height between 2 and 4 feet. Most flowers are red, growing in loose whorls with a tubular shape directed upward like a spike in the ground. This popular plant draws the attention of hummingbirds and bees when flowers bloom, which is year-round in the absence of a frost. Leaves have tiny hairs on them and are uniquely triangular in shape with scalloped edges.
Tropical Sage grows best in full sun or partial shade. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil but is also very drought tolerant, standing up to the hot summer months. To maintain a neat-looking landscape, cut it back at the end of the year after it finishes flowering and foliage begins to die, or as needed during the growing season to control its height.
Tropical Sage is a wonderful addition to a wildflower garden or in mixed beds. They blend in nicely with other plants for a wonderful pop of color. This versatile plant can be used as a large ground cover in mass plantings or cut individually and added to flower arrangements to be enjoyed indoors or given as a gift.
Native Origin:
Florida Native
Scientific Name
:
Salvia coccinea
Mature Height:
2 to 5 feet
Mature Spread:
1 to 2.5 feet
Sun Preference:
Full sun to partial shade
Soil Preference:
Sand
Drought Tolerance:
High
Salt Tolerance:
Moderate
Growth Rate:
Fast
Hardiness Zone:
6 - 11
Pollinator Friendly:
Yes
Features:
Butterfly and hummingbird attractant; Blooms most of the year; Drought tolerant