Scarlet Sage

The only native sage that has red flowers, scarlet sage can be found naturally in the southern United States where it can reseed itself. It can be grown in northern climates but may need to be treated as an annual due to winter kill. Tolerating many different soil types and moisture levels, it grows well in both sun and shade, although flowering may be affected in shade. Growing from 1-3 feet in height and producing showy red flowers during its long bloom period, May-October, it is highly utilized by pollinators, butterflies and hummingbirds. Deer do not like to graze on this species of sage due to its strong smelling foliage.