What are the characteristics of scarlet sage? A complete guide to this ornamental flower

Other names for scarlet sage

Scarlet sage is a herbaceous plant, and has other names such as "firecracker red", "ivory red" and "Western red". Scarlet sage originates from Brazil in South America, and is now widely planted in courtyards across most regions of China.

Morphological characteristics of scarlet sage

The scarlet sage plant can reach up to 90 cm tall, and its stem is a hairless, bluntly four-angled shape with shallow grooves.

The leaves of scarlet sage are (triangular-)ovate, about 2.5-7 cm long and about 2-4.5 cm wide.

The corolla of scarlet sage is red and tubular, and the slender verticillaster inflorescence generally bears 2-6 flowers; the flowers are also red, bright and numerous.

Growing habits of scarlet sage

Scarlet sage likes plenty of sunlight as it grows.

The most suitable growing soil for scarlet sage should be loose, well-drained and fertile; alkaline soil is rather unfavorable for its growth.

Scarlet sage has poor cold resistance, and it is best to maintain a growing temperature of 20-25°C. Below 15°C the plant stops growing, and below 10°C the leaves turn yellow and drop.

Value and uses of scarlet sage

Ornamental value: When scarlet sage blooms, it puts on dense, vivid patches of red, very festive, and especially suitable as a decoration during important festivals. It can also be grown as a potted plant at home, adding a touch of "passionate" vitality.

Medicinal value: The whole scarlet sage herb can be harvested during its growing period and used as medicine, either dried or fresh. It has good effects in clearing heat, reducing swelling, cooling the blood and eliminating sores; applying mashed scarlet sage to boils can bring its effects into play.

The flower language of scarlet sage

Scarlet sage of different colors represents different meanings: red symbolizes a "heart in love"; white symbolizes "abundant energy"; purple is a symbol of "wisdom".