How to Grow Texas Scarlet Sage
iNaturalist
Texas Scarlet Sage
Erysimum coccineus
flowerTexas Scarlet Sage is a vibrant perennial wildflower native to Texas and the southwestern United States, known for its brilliant scarlet-red tubular flowers that bloom prolifically. The plant grows in compact mounds and attracts hummingbirds and pollinators throughout the growing season. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and requires minimal maintenance once established.
When should you plant Texas Scarlet Sage in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Texas Scarlet Sage timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Texas Scarlet Sage
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
First Texas Scarlet Sage blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Texas Scarlet Sage dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Ideal in zones 8-10; performs best in hot, dry climates
Sign up free to see if Texas Scarlet Sage grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Texas Scarlet Sage timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge within 10-14 days; develop first true leaves
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright light; maintain 70-75°F; thin seedlings to prevent crowding
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops branching stems and narrow, lance-shaped foliage; forms compact mound shape
Reduce watering gradually; grow in full sun; harden off transplants before field planting; fertilize minimally with balanced fertilizer
Budding & Early Bloom
2-3 weeksFlower buds form at stem tips; first scarlet-red tubular flowers emerge
Maintain moderate watering; do not overwater; deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering; support with stakes if needed
Peak Flowering
4-8 weeksDense clusters of brilliant scarlet-red flowers cover the plant; peak hummingbird activity
Continue deadheading; reduce watering; monitor for spider mites in hot weather; allow some flowers to set seed for reseeding
Seed Production & Dormancy
6-12 weeksFlowers fade; seed pods develop; foliage may decline in late summer heat; plant enters dormancy or semi-dormancy
Minimize watering; collect seeds before dropping; prune back lightly if plant becomes leggy; plant is semi-evergreen and may regrow from base
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Increase humidity with occasional misting; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good air circulation
-
Row covers on young plants; diatomaceous earth; avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer
-
Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil spray; avoid overwatering
-
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; sulfur or potassium bicarbonate sprays; remove infected leaves
Uses
Hummingbird Magnet
WildlifeThe tubular scarlet-red flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds and pollinating insects. This plant is a premier choice for wildlife gardens and hummingbird feeders. [source]
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe bright red flowers are edible with a slightly peppery flavor and can be used as garnish in salads or as decorative elements on plated dishes. [source]
Xeriscape & Low-Maintenance Landscaping
HouseholdDrought-tolerant and heat-loving, Texas Scarlet Sage is ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and water-conservative landscape design in hot climates. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftThe long-lasting vibrant blooms make excellent cut flowers for fresh floral arrangements and bouquets with extended vase life. [source]
Traditional Uses
MedicinalIn traditional southwestern herbalism, Erysimum species have been used for respiratory support and general wellness, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For seed collection, allow flowers to fade and pods to dry on the plant. Harvest seed pods when they turn brown and papery (typically late summer to early fall). Break open pods and collect seeds. Store in cool, dry location for spring sowing. Cut flowers can be harvested for arrangements by cutting stems in early morning when blooms are fresh.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Texas Scarlet Sage is a wildflower native to the Trans-Pecos region of Texas and can self-seed prolifically in favorable conditions, creating naturalized drifts of scarlet color.
- 🌱 The plant's name 'coccineus' comes from the Latin word for scarlet, perfectly describing its brilliant flower color that has evolved to be irresistible to hummingbirds.
- 🌱 Unlike many Erysimum species (wallflowers), E. coccineus is specifically adapted to hot, arid climates and actually thrives better with minimal water and fertilizer.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Texas Scarlet Sage planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Texas Scarlet Sage seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Texas Scarlet Sage timeline →