Salvia microphylla 'Hot Lips'
What a great name for a plant, though there is also a chilli variety called 'Hot Lips' which is also aptly named. This is another Mexican shrub which was introduced to horticulture by Richard Turner of the Strybing Arboretum of San Francisco. It forms a well rounded bush to about 1 metre high and wide and seems to have flowers for at least 8 months of the year. The flowers are often bi-coloured or some are pure white and some red. The leaves and flowers are only small but it is an ideal shrub for a small garden where it can be viewed up close. It is frost hardy and tolerates dry conditions well. For maintenance, it just needs the occasional once over with hedge shears to keep it looking good.
2017 update: Currently out of stock but available again soon.
2017 update: Currently out of stock but available again soon.
This is another plant like the chilli, originating from Mexico and naturalised in India. I wonder what my ancestors ate, before America and the chilli were discovered!Can't imagine Indian cooking without chillies.The name is very apt for the plant.
ReplyDeleteIan, I love the variegated petal of this salvia. I've heard that one can use the leaves, as a medicinal tea. Have you ever done that?
ReplyDeleteSalvia microphylla looks wonderful on your blog. I am not at all familiar with this plant, but it sounds like one I would like to get to know better.
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