Salvia greggii ‘Radio Red’, commonly known as Autumn Sage, is a compact, evergreen perennial subshrub that produces an abundance of vivid scarlet-red flowers from late spring until the first frosts. Its exceptionally long flowering season, aromatic foliage and nectar-rich blooms make it a standout choice for borders, gravel gardens and containers, bringing months of colour with very little maintenance.
Native to the dry, rocky landscapes of Texas and Mexico, this resilient salvia thrives in sunny, well-drained positions and becomes impressively drought tolerant once established. Whether planted as part of a Mediterranean-style border or a wildlife-friendly garden, ‘Radio Red’ is guaranteed to attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial pollinators throughout the season.
Perennial
Semi-evergreen • Long Flowering • Drought Tolerant • Pollinator Friendly • Fragrant Foliage • Great for Containers • Low Maintenance
Flowers
Masses of brilliant scarlet-red tubular flowers appear continuously from late spring until the first frosts, providing one of the longest flowering displays of any hardy perennial.
Foliage
Small, aromatic mid-green leaves remain semi-evergreen in mild winters and release a pleasant fragrance when touched.
Scientific Name
Salvia greggii ‘Radio Red’
Common Name
Autumn Sage
Origin
Cultivar of a species native to Texas and Mexico.
Pruning Tips
Lightly deadhead throughout the flowering season to encourage even more blooms. In early spring, cut back the previous year’s growth by around one-third, removing any frost-damaged stems to maintain a neat, bushy shape.
Wildlife Value
An outstanding plant for pollinators, providing a rich source of nectar for bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects from late spring until autumn.
Positioning
Plant in full sun in a warm, sheltered location. Performs best where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Water
Water regularly during its first growing season while establishing. Once established, it is drought tolerant and only requires occasional watering during extended dry periods.
Soil
Prefers well-drained sandy, chalky or loamy soils. Avoid heavy or waterlogged soils, particularly during winter.
Food
Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring. Avoid excessive feeding, which can encourage leafy growth and reduce flowering.
Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic to cats, dogs and horses.
Sprouts Top Tips
For the best display, plant in the sunniest part of your garden and deadhead regularly to keep fresh flowers coming all summer long. Pair with lavender, gaura and ornamental grasses for a beautiful, drought-tolerant planting scheme that’s buzzing with pollinators.
