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Description
Salvia Splendens Scarlet King, also known as Scarlet Sage, is a beautiful and popular flowering plant that belongs to the sage family, Lamiaceae. It is native to Brazil and has been widely cultivated for its vivid red flowers that bloom throughout the summer and fall seasons. Scarlet King grows up to 2-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, making it a perfect choice for border planting or as a bedding plant. It is also a favorite among hummingbirds and butterflies, as they are attracted to its bright red blooms.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Salvia |
Appearance
Scarlet King has a bushy and upright growth habit, with dark green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1 inch wide. Its flowers are bright red, tubular, and bloom on spikes that rise above the foliage. The flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds, making it an excellent addition to any garden or landscape. The plant blooms from summer to fall, and the flowers last for several weeks. Scarlet King can be grown as an annual in colder climates or as a perennial in warmer regions.
Care Guide
Salvia Splendens Scarlet King is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to grow. Here is a care guide for this plant:
- Water: Scarlet King prefers well-drained soil and requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, it is essential not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize Scarlet King with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
- Soil: Scarlet King prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. In hot and dry climates, it will benefit from some afternoon shade to prevent heat stress.
- Hardiness Zones: Scarlet King is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but it can be grown as an annual in colder regions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scarlet King is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and appear speckled. Use a miticide to control spider mites.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves of the plant. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Salvia Splendens Scarlet King is native to Brazil and prefers warm and humid climates. It grows best in full sun exposure or partial shade and requires regular watering. Scarlet King can be grown in containers, borders, or as a bedding plant. It is a popular choice among gardeners due to its bright red flowers and low maintenance requirements.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Scarlet King be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scarlet King can be grown in containers as long as they are well-drained and have adequate soil moisture.
Q: Does Scarlet King require pruning?
A: Yes, it is recommended to prune Scarlet King regularly to promote bushy growth and more flowers.
Q: How often should Scarlet King be fertilized?
A: Scarlet King should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Scarlet King resistant to pests and diseases?
A: Scarlet King is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Salvia Splendens
- Salvia Coccinea
- Salvia Farinacea
- Salvia Guarantica
References
- Bonnie Plants. (n.d.). Scarlet Sage. Retrieved from https://bonnieplants.com/growing/growing-scarlet-sage/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Salvia Splendens. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277819&isprofile=0&
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Salvia Splendens. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/salvia-splendens/
