Cherry-red tropical sage (Salvia splendens) with blooms that take on deeper, subdued colour than its popular, scarlet relative, will receive recognition even from the most demanding gardeners. This compact plant develops a dense, tuft habit and grows 30 cm tall. Its leaves, gathered in earthbound rosettes are vividly green and oval in shape. Narrow blooms appear in great numbers and gather in long, slender ears. You will be able to enjoy them all summer long and early in autumn, from June until September.

It is recommended to grow tropical sage from seedlings in our climate. Seeds can be sown in early spring to cool hotbeds, large pots, trays and boxes. They will germinate nicely at home, in a mini greenhouse or under glass, too. Seedlings need to be hardened after having been pricked out to separate pots. After the May frosts they are transferred to a balcony or external windowsill, or transplanted into open air. In order to enjoy rich and long blooming, you have to provide tropical sage with a sunny site. Cherry-red, distinct blooms of the variety offered here will harmonise with exuberant ears of white and pink-orange tropical sage. You may also set them up with pastel-coloured flossflower, gentle baby's breath or silver ragwort with its beautiful, silvery-grey leaves.

Each package contains 0.3 g of cherry red tropical sage seeds. Package information contains a growing guide and the sow-by date.

• Weight: 0.3 g
• Height: 30 cm
• Use: ornamental
• Flowering period: June - September
• Growth form: dense tuft
• Flower colour: Cherry-red
• Foliage: green, oval, gathered in rosettes
• Flower type: long, slender ears
• Site: sunny