Dharaseeds
Sage Seeds - Blaze of Fire
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Blaze of Fire Sage (Salvia splendens) is an ornamental variety of sage that features striking, bright red flowers, making it a bold addition to any garden. Known for its fiery appearance and compact growth habit, this cultivar is perfect for adding color and drama to your landscape. It thrives in sunny locations and well-drained soils, making it an easy-to-grow choice for gardeners looking to attract pollinators and enhance their garden's aesthetic.
Key Benefits
- Vibrant Color: Blaze of Fire Sage produces striking red blooms that create an eye-catching focal point in gardens, flower beds, and containers.
- Compact Growth: This variety grows to a manageable height, making it ideal for smaller gardens, borders, or as an accent plant in containers.
- Pollinator-Friendly: The bright red flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, adding to the garden’s ecological diversity.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Blaze of Fire Sage is drought-tolerant and easy to care for, requiring minimal attention throughout the growing season.
Variety Features
- Plant Type: Annual.
- Flower Color: Bright red.
- Height: Typically grows to 12–18 inches.
- Hardiness Zone: Best suited for USDA Zones 9–11.
- Uses: Primarily ornamental, ideal for garden beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets.
Planting Instructions
When to Plant
- Indoor Growing: Start seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant outside when the weather is warm and there is no more risk of frost.
- Outdoor Growing: Direct sow in early spring after the last frost date when temperatures consistently stay above 60°F (15°C).
Soil & Spacing
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly fertile soil. It tolerates poor soil conditions but will thrive in moderately rich soil.
- Spacing: Space plants 10–12 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and room for the plants to grow.
Germination
- Temperature: Ideal germination temperature is between 70°F and 75°F (21°C–24°C).
- Germination Time: Seeds typically take 7–14 days to germinate under the right conditions.
Care Instructions
- Watering: Keep the soil moderately moist during germination and early growth. Once established, Blaze of Fire Sage is drought-tolerant but will perform better with regular watering during dry spells.
- Sunlight: Full sun is best for Blaze of Fire Sage to ensure robust growth and vibrant blooms. It can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a neat appearance.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the start of the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
Harvesting Details
- Flower Harvesting: Cut the flowers when they are in full bloom for use in floral arrangements or as a colorful addition to your home décor.
- Seed Saving: Allow flowers to mature and dry on the plant. Collect seeds once they are fully dried for future planting.
Culinary Uses
- Fresh or Dried Leaves: While primarily grown for ornamental purposes, the leaves of Blaze of Fire Sage can be used in small quantities to add a mild, earthy flavor to culinary dishes, especially in herbal teas or as an addition to savory dishes.
- Edible Flowers: The vibrant red flowers can be used as a garnish for salads, desserts, or as a colorful addition to herbal teas.
Medicinal Uses
- Traditional Uses: Like other types of sage, Blaze of Fire Sage may have mild medicinal properties, including acting as a natural anti-inflammatory and soothing digestive issues. However, it is primarily cultivated for its ornamental beauty rather than medicinal value.
- Aromatherapy: The aromatic leaves can be used in homemade sachets or potpourri to infuse your home with a fresh herbal scent.
Conclusion
Blaze of Fire Sage is a stunning addition to any garden, offering brilliant red flowers that bring vibrant color to the landscape. Perfect for borders, containers, or as a focal point in your garden, this low-maintenance plant thrives in sunny locations and attracts pollinators, making it a valuable asset for any garden. Whether you are a novice or experienced gardener, Blaze of Fire Sage offers easy care and a striking appearance, ensuring your garden will stand out throughout the growing season.