Garden hybrid

Salvia x hybridaHybrid Sage

30 other cultivars

perennial

Cherry Chief Salvia

Salvia x hybrida 'Cherry Chief'

The Story

Plant Bio

Salvia x hybrida 'Cherry Chief' is a perennial shrub known for its vibrant, cherry-red tubular flowers that attract pollinators, set against aromatic, green, ovate leaves. It produces a dense, upright growth habit.

This cultivar is distinguished by its prolific flowering and long-lasting blooms, making it a popular choice for adding bold color and attracting hummingbirds and bees to gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright red flowers add vibrant color to garden beds and borders, attracting pollinators and enhancing visual appeal.

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

Supports pollinator populations, including bees and butterflies.

SpeciesSalvia x hybridaHybrid Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

30 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Native to North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly until established, then reduce watering.
Place in full sun for best flowering results.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization in late season
Don’t cut back in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower borderPollinator-friendly gardenDrought-tolerant planting bed

Companion Plants

Lavender Sedum CoreopsisYarrow Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cherry Chief Salvia questions

What zones can Cherry Chief Salvia grow in?

Cherry Chief Salvia 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 Cherry Chief Salvia deer resistant?

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

When does Cherry Chief Salvia bloom?

Cherry Chief Salvia typically blooms in spring 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 Cherry Chief Salvia need full sun?

Cherry Chief Salvia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Cherry Chief Salvia drought tolerant?

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