How to Grow Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy'
Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy'
Salvia microphylla 'Phyllis' Fancy'
shrubA compact ornamental sage cultivar prized for its tubular bicolor flowers featuring red outer petals and white-throated centers. This semi-woody shrub blooms prolifically from late spring through frost, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators. It remains evergreen in mild climates and brings continuous color to borders, containers, and pollinator gardens.
When should you plant Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' in your zone?
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Example Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Salvia 'Phyllis' Fancy'
Around Apr 25≈ 8 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11; may survive zone 7b with winter protection
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Establishment
2-4 weeksYoung transplant with limited branching; foliage is soft and tender
Water regularly to establish root system. Provide partial shade for first 2-3 weeks if planted in intense heat. Mulch lightly around base.
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and dense foliage; limited or no flowering
Pinch back stem tips to encourage bushier growth. Reduce nitrogen to promote flowering. Allow 6-8 weeks before expecting significant blooms.
Flowering
5-7 months (May/June through first frost)Abundant tubular red and white flowers appear along stems; active throughout warm season
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to extend blooming. Provide consistent (not excessive) water. Feed with balanced fertilizer monthly or phosphorus-rich formula every 6 weeks.
Fall/Winter
2-3 monthsFlowering continues but may slow as temperatures drop; plant hardens off in cooler zones
Reduce watering as growth slows. In zones 8-9, provide mulch around base for winter protection. Avoid pruning until late winter. In zones 10-11, continue light deadheading.
Spring Renewal
4-6 weeksPlant resumes vigorous growth as temperatures warm; old stems leaf out or should be pruned
Late winter/early spring: cut back by 1/3 to 1/2 to remove winter damage and encourage dense new growth. Resume regular watering and feeding.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray foliage with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap if severe. Improve air circulation around plants.
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Spray with strong water stream or insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray undersides of leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Improve air circulation.
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Ensure excellent drainage. Reduce watering frequency. Remove and discard severely affected plants; improve soil structure.
Uses
Hummingbird Magnet
WildlifeThe tubular red flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other nectar-feeding birds. Plant in clusters for maximum pollinator activity and visual impact. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangement
HouseholdLong-lasting flower stems make excellent additions to fresh bouquets and floral arrangements. Blooms last 1-2 weeks in a vase with fresh water. [source]
Dried Flower Material
CraftFlowers and stems dry well for dried arrangements and craft projects. Hang bundles upside down in a warm, dry location for 2-3 weeks. [source]
Ornamental Garnish
CulinaryIndividual flowers can be used as edible garnishes for desserts and cocktails, adding visual elegance and subtle herbal flavor. [source]
Harvest Tips
This is an ornamental shrub not harvested for consumption. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season by pinching or cutting just below the flower cluster to promote continuous blooming. Flowers can be cut for fresh arrangements; cut stems in early morning when water-filled.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Salvia microphylla is native to Mexico and means 'small-leaved sage'—the cultivar 'Phyllis' Fancy' was bred for its especially vibrant bicolor flower display.
- 🌱 The plant can bloom nearly year-round in frost-free climates, making it one of the longest-blooming ornamental sages available.
- 🌱 Despite being a tender perennial, 'Phyllis' Fancy' often resprouts from roots even if the top freezes back in zone 8, returning the following spring.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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