Salvia Hot Lips

A Garden Showstopper — Striking Bicolour Blooms All Summer Long

Salvia 'Hot Lips' is one of the most eye-catching and talked-about perennials you can grow. Its distinctive two-toned flowers — bold red upper lip and pure white lower lip — appear in abundance from early summer right through to the first frosts, creating a dazzling display that never fails to draw attention. A vigorous, bushy plant with aromatic foliage, it's as tough as it is beautiful.

Why You'll Love It

• ❤️ Stunning bicolour flowers — the iconic red and white blooms are truly unique
• 🦋 Brilliant for pollinators — hummingbird moths, bees and butterflies flock to it
• 🌸 Exceptionally long flowering season — blooms from June right through to autumn
• 🌿 Aromatic foliage — pleasantly scented leaves add extra sensory appeal
• 💪 Vigorous and easy to grow — reliable year after year in UK gardens

Growing Tips

Plant in a sunny, sheltered position in well-drained soil. Salvia 'Hot Lips' thrives in warm spots and is perfect for sunny borders, patio containers, and Mediterranean-style planting schemes. It pairs beautifully with lavenders, penstemons, and ornamental grasses.

Care

Cut back in spring once the risk of frost has passed to encourage fresh bushy growth. In colder areas, apply a protective mulch over winter or bring containers under cover. Deadhead regularly to keep the flowers coming all season long.