Salvia ‘Roman Red’

Salvia splendens x darcyi ‘Roman Red’

Patented Plant PP#31,931: Propagation Restrictions Apply

Characteristics

Culture

Vivid red-scarlet blooms soar above contrasting wine-purple sepals. Offering outstanding landscape performance, Salvia ‘Roman Red’ loves heat, tolerates drought, and flourishes in sun or partial shade. Entices a steady stream of butterflies and bees.  Striking spikes of vibrant red flowers atop aromatic, gray-green foliage. This hardy plant adds vertical interest and bold color to gardens.  A low maintenance long bloomer.  Deadhead for maximum flower power.  Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with Salvia ‘Roman Red’ plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating. Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Compact and heavily branched, Salvia darcyi x splendens is smaller and has a more rounded, tidy form than most of its Scarlet Sage relatives.  It is a low maintenance, long bloomer with lush, mid-green foliage with a slightly soft texture. It prefers well-draining soil. Moderately rich soil will enhance blooming.  It requires regular watering, especially in dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. Cutting Salvia ‘Roman Red’ back in late winter or early spring will maintain its compact shape. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season for optimal growth and flowering. Keep granular fertilizers away from the plant crown and foliage to avoid burn injury. Use low rates of a slow release, as higher rates may encourage root rot.

Problems

Relatively pest and disease free.

Garden Uses

Containers for balconies and patios. Beds, Borders.