Scarlet Sage

Salvia coccinea, also known as scarlet sage, blood sage, Texas sage, or tropical sage, is a herbaceous perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to Mexico and the southeastern United States but is now cultivated worldwide. 

Scarlet sage is a popular garden plant due to its long flowering period and showy red flowers. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2.5 feet wide, and blooms from early summer to the first frost. The flowers are arranged in loose whorls along the upright stem and are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. 

Scarlet sage is relatively easy to grow and care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant but will flower more abundantly with regular watering. Scarlet sage can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or division.

In addition to its ornamental value, scarlet sage has also been used medicinally for centuries. The leaves and flowers have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, flu, sore throats, and digestive problems. However, it is important to note that scarlet sage is a poisonous plant if ingested in large quantities.

Salvia coccinea is native to the following states in the United States:

Alabama
Florida
Georgia
Louisiana
Mississippi
Ohio
South Carolina
Texas