Garden hybrid

Verbena x hybridaGarden Verbena

25 other cultivars

perennial

Hot Lips Sage

Verbena x hybrida 'Hot Lips'

The Story

Plant Bio

Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips' is a compact, semi-evergreen sub-shrub known for its vibrant, bicolored flowers and mounded growth habit, with aromatic, serrated leaves that attract pollinators.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking red and white bi-colored flowers, which provide a lively splash of color throughout the summer and are particularly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright, bicolor flowers add vibrant color to gardens and containers.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesVerbena x hybridaGarden Verbena

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil
Water thoroughly after planting
Place in full sun for best blooms
Fertilize monthly during growing season
Pinch back to encourage bushiness in early spring
Mulch lightly to retain moisture

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Deadhead spent flowers to promote rebloom

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged
Neglect pruning, leading to leggy growth
Use heavy mulch that retains too much moisture

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border plantWildflower garden accent

Companion Plants

Salvia Lantana Coreopsis Gaillardia Sedum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hot Lips Sage questions

What zones can Hot Lips Sage grow in?

Hot Lips 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 Hot Lips Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Hot Lips Sage bloom?

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

Does Hot Lips Sage need full sun?

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

Is Hot Lips Sage drought tolerant?

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