Autumn sage 'Hot Lips'

Salvia × jamensis 'Hot Lips' has become one of the most popular perennials in the UK due to its unique bicolour flowers and incredibly long flowering season. The small, aromatic, green leaves provide a base for a constant display of flowers that are typically white with bright red 'lips'. Interestingly, the flower colour can change depending on the temperature; in mid-summer, flowers may be solid red, while in cooler periods, they may appear solid white or various bicolour combinations. It has a shrubby, bushy habit and can reach about 90cm in height. This salvia is relatively hardy but requires a sheltered, sunny spot with very well-drained soil to survive wet winters. It is a magnet for bees and butterflies. To maintain its shape and encourage new growth, it should be lightly pruned in spring after the risk of frost has passed. It works beautifully in Mediterranean-style gardens, containers, or at the front of a sunny border.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, light soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov.