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Saucy Wine Salvia

Salvia splendens ‘Saucy Wine’
A herbaceous perennial that grows up to 24 inches tall and 24 inches wide at maturity, with deep maroon flower spikes and clean green foliage. Versatile, it adds long-lasting color to flower beds, borders and containers. Hardy in zones 9-10.

Product Details

Saucy Wine Salvia

Salvia splendens ‘Saucy Wine’

 Saucy Wine Salvia stands out with vibrant, maroon blooms that appear on tall spikes from late spring through fall. The flowers rise above a full base of deep green foliage, delivering a striking vertical accent in mixed beds or borders. Reaching 2 feet tall and up to 2 feet wide, this salvia offers strong seasonal presence without becoming unruly. This perennial's vivid flower color and long bloom period make it ideal for high-impact displays, pollinator-friendly plantings, or commercial landscapes. Heat-tolerant and fast-growing, Saucy Wine Salvia performs well in warm climates. 

  • A herbaceous perennial
  • Maroon flower spikes
  • Upright growth habit 
  • Fast growth rate
  • Great for borders, mass plantings, and containers

Plant in full sun, providing at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. It thrives in well-drained soil. Hardy in zones 9-10, can be used as an annual in your North Texas landscape. 


Saucy Wine Salvia is a compact, vibrant perennial shrub providing low-maintenance color and texture throughout the growing season.

  • Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong, deep roots. Once established, Saucy Wine Salvia tolerates dry conditions but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged drought. Avoid soggy soil, which can cause root issues. Consistent deep watering promotes healthy foliage and extended flowering.
  • Pruning: Light pruning in late winter or early spring encourages compact, dense growth. Remove spent flowers throughout the blooming season to maintain appearance and encourage reblooming. Avoid heavy pruning in late fall, as tender new growth can be damaged by frost.
  • Fertilizing: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring if soil is poor. Over-fertilization can result in soft, leggy growth that reduces flower density. In lean soils, additional feeding is usually unnecessary.
  • Mulching: Add a 2-3 inch layer of coarse mulch, gravel, or pine fines around the base to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve airflow. Keep mulch slightly away from the crown to prevent rot and maintain healthy roots.
  • Winter Care: Saucy Wine Salvia is hardy in USDA zones 8–11. In colder climates or during unusual freezes, apply a light mulch around the base for root protection. Container plants may require temporary shelter during frost or prolonged cold.
  • Leggy Growth: Excessive shade or over-fertilization can cause open, sparse growth. Light pruning in early spring encourages denser branching and fuller foliage.
  • Root Rot: Poor drainage or overwatering may lead to root decline. Plant in well-draining soil, or consider raised beds in heavy or compacted soils.
  • Fungal Leaf Spots: Brown or black spots may appear in humid, overcrowded conditions. Remove affected leaves and increase airflow around the plant. Avoid overhead watering when possible.
  • Pests: Generally pest-resistant, though occasional aphids or spider mites may appear during hot, dry weather. Rinse leaves or treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
  • Reduced Flowering: Stress from drought, inconsistent watering, or nutrient imbalance may reduce blooms. Regular deadheading and consistent care promote a prolonged flowering season.

It grows moderately, typically reaching 2-3 feet tall and wide within 2-3 years. Its compact, upright habit is ideal for borders, mass plantings, or container gardens.

With proper care, it can thrive for 5-10 years or more. Regular pruning, proper watering, and well-drained soil maintain its health and flowering performance.

Yes. Its compact size and long blooming habit make it perfect for large pots, decorative planters, or mixed container arrangements. Ensure excellent drainage and avoid water accumulation around the crown.

Yes. Its tubular flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it excellent for pollinator-friendly gardens. Aromatic foliage can help deter deer and rabbits.

Absolutely. Once established, it thrives with minimal supplemental water, making it ideal for xeriscapes and hot, sunny gardens.

Yes. Saucy Wine Salvia thrives in well-draining soils, including rocky or sandy conditions. Overly rich soils may lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.

Light pruning annually and deadheading spent flowers throughout the season keep the plant tidy and encourage reblooming.

Yes. Its striking wine-red flowers, long bloom period, and compact habit make it excellent for groupings, perennial borders, or accent plantings along pathways.

Provide consistent deep watering during dry spells, remove spent flowers regularly, and prune lightly in early spring. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can reduce flower production.

Its rich wine-red flowers, aromatic foliage, long blooming season, and heat/drought tolerance make it a standout in sunny gardens. It offers bold color, structure, and low-maintenance beauty for formal or naturalistic landscapes.

Special Features

Drought Tolerant
Fragrant Burgundy Flowers
Long Bloom Time
Compact Size
Maroon flower spikes
Heat-tolerant
Pollinator-friendly
Leaf Retention:Herbaceous
Scientific Name:Salvia splendens ‘Saucy Wine’
Sun Needs:Full Sun or Partial shade
Maturity:2' H x 2' W
Leaf Color:Striking red blooms lasting spring to autumn, complemented by rich green foliage
Flower Color:Red
Bloom Times:Spring, Summer & Fall

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Saucy Wine Salvia
Saucy Wine Salvia

This plant

Scientific NameSalvia splendens ‘Saucy Wine’Salvia guaranitica ‘Black & Blue’
Size at Maturity2' H x 2' W3' H x 2' W
Leaf RetentionHerbaceousHerbaceous
Flower ColorRedBlue
Bloom TimesSpring, Summer & FallSpring, Summer & Fall
Sizes Available1 Gal
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