Vermillion Bluffs Mexican Sage
Vermillion Bluffs Mexican sage is grown for its long-lasting spires of crimson red flowers. The flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds. They bloom from late summer through October. The leaves are fuzzy and green, making a nice backdrop for the blossoms.
Although this is a hardier selection of Mexican sage, Colorado Springs is on the edge of its winter hardiness zone. It needs a warm, protected location to survive the winter. It can be grown as an annual.
Vermillion Bluffs Mexican Sage
Vermillion Bluffs Mexican sage is grown for its long-lasting spires of crimson red flowers. The flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds. They bloom from late summer through October. The leaves are fuzzy and green, making a nice backdrop for the blossoms.
Although this is a hardier selection of Mexican sage, Colorado Springs is on the edge of its winter hardiness zone. It needs a warm, protected location to survive the winter. It can be grown as an annual.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Salvia darcyi 'Pscarl'
Pronunciation
SAL-vee-uh DAR-see-eye
Mature Height
2 to 3 ft.
Mature Spread
15 to 18 in.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
red
Bloom time
August to October
Colorado Native
No
Natural Habitat
species is native to Sierra Madre Oriental Mountains of Mexico
Light Requirements
sun, part shade
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 5b-10
Elevation Limit
hardy to 5,500 ft.
Performance
Vermillion Bluffs Mexican sage is not normally cold hardy in Colorado Springs. It has, however, survived many winters along the south side of the brick building at the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden. The reflected heat seems to help.
It is very attractive to hummingbirds any time it is in flower. Because the flowers are so spectacular, it is worth trying in a warm, protected location.
Maintenance
Cut old stems and leaves to ground level in early spring.