perennialN. America Native

Forsythia Sage

Salvia madrensis 'Red Neck Girl'

$23.00

The Story

Plant Bio

A very large, late-blooming perennial sage native to the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains in Mexico, known for its tall stature, large heart-shaped leaves, and spikes of yellow flowers.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking, deep burgundy-red petioles and stems, which contrast beautifully with the green foliage and yellow flowers.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesSalvia madrensis with its vibrant red flowers adds striking color and attracts pollinators like hummingbirds and bees.
Practical UsesIts aromatic foliage can be used in herbal teas and natural remedies.
Ecological BenefitsSupports local pollinator populations, enhancing garden biodiversity.
SpeciesSalvia madrensisForsythia Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

96 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot
In Stock$23.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Transplant seedlings when they have 2-3 sets of true leaves.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry periods.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, organic fertilizer.
  6. Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune to shape after flowering
  • Apply organic fertilizer monthly

Don't

  • Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
  • Allow soil to become waterlogged ❌
  • Neglect pruning after flowering ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Aromatic herb borderColorful perennial bedWildflower meadow

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Forsythia Sage questions

What zones can Forsythia Sage grow in?

Forsythia Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Forsythia Sage deer resistant?

Yes — Forsythia Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Forsythia Sage bloom?

Forsythia Sage typically blooms in late summer to fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Forsythia Sage need full sun?

Forsythia Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Forsythia Sage drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Forsythia Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Forsythia Sage with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.