Scarlet Sage
Salvia coccinea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Scarlet Sage is a native wildflower found across the southeastern United States from Texas to South Carolina. This red-flowered perennial blooms from March through November and attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Scarlet Sage (Salvia coccinea) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 3 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Scarlet Sage produces brilliant red tubular flowers nearly year-round, making it one of the longest-blooming native perennials in Texas. This compact plant maintains a neat, upright form and thrives in hot, dry conditions with minimal care.
Growing Scarlet Sage
Grow Scarlet Sage in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Scarlet Sage is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The bright red flowers are magnets for hummingbirds and butterflies, while also attracting native bees. This plant provides nectar from spring through late fall, making it valuable for migrating hummingbirds.
Common questions
- When does Scarlet Sage bloom?
- Scarlet Sage has an exceptionally long blooming period, flowering from March through November in most areas where it grows naturally.
- What pollinators visit Scarlet Sage?
- Scarlet Sage attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds with its bright red tubular flowers and long blooming season.
- Where is Scarlet Sage native?
- Scarlet Sage is native to seven southeastern states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Texas.
- How much water does Scarlet Sage need?
- Scarlet Sage is drought tolerant once established and thrives with low to moderate water. It performs well in xeriscaped gardens and naturalized areas.
- Is Scarlet Sage toxic to dogs?
- Scarlet Sage is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Scarlet Sage toxic to cats?
- Scarlet Sage is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Scarlet Sage HOA-friendly?
- Scarlet Sage is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Scarlet Sage fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.