The Story
Plant Bio
A compact shrub, Salvia 'Lipstick' features vibrant red flowers that attract pollinators and provide long-lasting color.
Notable for its exceptionally bright red flowers and extended blooming period, making it a favorite among hummingbirds.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Western Texas and Northern Mexico
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining sandy or loamy soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds 1/4 inch deep and water gently after sowing.
- Place in full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
- Water regularly during initial establishment, then reduce frequency.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and 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 deeply but infrequently to mimic natural conditions 🌱
- Prune after flowering to shape and encourage blooms
- Use well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don't fertilize excessively, as it can reduce flowering
- Never prune into old wood, which may not regrow
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lipstick Sage questions
What zones can Lipstick Sage grow in?
Lipstick 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 Lipstick Sage deer resistant?
Yes — Lipstick Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lipstick Sage bloom?
Lipstick Sage typically blooms in late 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 Lipstick Sage need full sun?
Lipstick Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Lipstick Sage drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Lipstick Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Salvia to compare

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Salvia nemorosa 'May Night'

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Salvia nemorosa 'Celestial Blue'

Marcus Woodland Sage
Salvia nemorosa 'Marcus'

White Profusion Salvia
Salvia x hybrida 'White Profusion'

Lyrical Blues Salvia
Salvia x hybrida 'Lyrical Blues'

Rose Marvel Sage
Salvia nemorosa 'Rose Marvel'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Lipstick 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.



















