Scarlet sage seeds (Salvia splendens)

Scarlet sage, also known as tropical sage or red salvia, is grown for upright spikes of vivid red flowers. Salvia splendens is an accepted species in the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is native to southeastern Brazil. The Royal Horticultural Society describes it as a compact upright perennial that is commonly grown as a warm-season annual or tender bedding plant in cooler climates.

This Deodar product is identified to species level only. No named cultivar, exact mature size, fixed flowering date or guaranteed colour uniformity is assigned to this seed lot. The gallery contains licensed reference photographs of Salvia splendens; they illustrate the taxon and do not claim to show the exact supplied seed lot.

What you receive

• SKU: HER118
• Packet: 100 seeds
• Botanical name: Salvia splendens
• Seeds for ornamental growing, not a live plant

Sowing and early care

For a controlled start, sow in clean trays or small pots filled with a fine, free-draining seed-starting medium. RHS guidance recommends spring sowing at 15–18°C. Keep the medium lightly and evenly moist while germination is under way, but avoid waterlogging. After emergence, provide bright light and gentle airflow so seedlings develop steadily.

Move seedlings into larger containers when they can be handled safely. Before planting outside, acclimate indoor-raised plants gradually to stronger light, wind and temperature changes. Plant outdoors only when conditions are reliably warm and the local risk of frost has passed. In climates with different seasons, adjust sowing and planting dates to local conditions.

Growing position

Grow scarlet sage in full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil. It suits flower borders, summer bedding displays, edging, patios and containers. Water during dry weather, particularly while plants establish, without leaving roots in saturated soil. Pinching young growth can encourage a bushier habit, while removing faded flower spikes helps keep the display tidy.

Storage and expectations

Keep unused seeds sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excess humidity. Germination timing and final garden performance depend on temperature, moisture, seed handling, season and growing practice, so no fixed germination percentage or flowering result is promised.

Botanical references

• Kew Plants of the World Online: Salvia splendens — accepted name and native range.
• Royal Horticultural Society: Salvia splendens — plant description and cultivation guidance.

These references support botanical identity and general cultivation information; they do not identify a named cultivar or certify this exact seed lot.