Vermilion Bluffs Mexican Sage is a large-sized flowering perennial that is a real attention-grabber. I have found this plant to be an excellent choice for dry, southern exposures and Xeriscapes. It is fairly easy to grow, and produces bright-red flowers throughout the summer. Hummingbirds love this plant- it is not uncommon to see 4 or 5 of them at a time on a single plant.
PLANT STATS
Scientific Name: Salvia darcyi ‘Pscarl’
Plant Type: Perennial
Mature Height: 36-48″
Mature Spread: 30-42″
Water Requirement: Low
Exposure: Full Sun to partial shade- best in full sun.
Best Features: Intense cardinal red flowers that hummingbirds love.
Flowers: Bright cardinal red tubular flowers from July through October.
Winter Interest: Minimal
Disadvantages: Does not perform well in poorly drained soils. Late to emerge in spring.
Availability and Sizes: This plant was introduced in 2007, but is already available through most retail and wholesale nurseries. Commonly available in 1 gallon size, or in flats of smaller pots. I would recommend the 1 gallon size.
Maintenance Tip: Mulch heavily over the winter to protect from hard freezes.
Other: Leaves and stems are very aromatic. Salvia darcyi was originally collected in the Sierra Madre Oriental in Mexico. Named to Plant Select in 2007.
