One of our favorite plants to use here in the El Dorado Hills area is the North American native, Salvia microphylla ‘Hot Lips’ - Hot Lips Sage. It is such a hearty plant and once it is established it needs very little water; a highly valued feature in our dry, hot summers.

The striking red and white two-toned flowers can create interest in almost any garden and its contrasting green leaf texture adds visual diversity. It also attracts hummingbirds who love its flower nectar.

You’ll need full sun for these salvias and in size, they max out at 3 feet high and wide, although I have seen some get to 5’ high and wide. It’s fast growth rate is another great feature and they really take off in their second growing season.

We highly recommend this amazing salvia!

If you can’t find Hot Lips Salvia at your local nursery or garden supply store and you want to try growing them from seed, you can order seeds here: Hot Lips Salvia Seeds

If you have a landscape project that you need design help with, we’d love the opportunity to meet and provide you with a free estimate. Please fill out a New Project Inquiry Form here: https://www.gill-gardens.com/new-project-inquiry-form and someone from our office will contact you to schedule a consultation.

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Greg Gill is a Professional Landscape Architect with over 25 years of designing, installing and maintaining residential gardens and landscapes. He is passionate about helping his clients achieve a garden space they will love and enjoy for years.

Registered Landscape Architect
State of California #6489

Gill Gardens serves the greater El Dorado Hills, California area, including Folsom, Granite Bay, Roseville, Sacramento and everywhere in between. Not your ordinary landscaper.