How to Grow Scarlet Mint Bush
Wikimedia Commons
Scarlet Mint Bush
Salvia splendens
flowerScarlet Mint Bush is a tender perennial grown as an annual in most climates, prized for its brilliant red tubular flowers and vibrant foliage. Native to Brazil, it produces dense spikes of flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators throughout the growing season. The plant thrives in warm conditions and is excellent for borders, containers, and cutting gardens.
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Example Scarlet Mint Bush timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Scarlet Mint Bush
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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First Scarlet Mint Bush blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 9-11 as a perennial; grown as an annual in zones 3-8
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Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves appearing. Very delicate and light-sensitive.
Keep soil consistently moist. Provide bright, indirect light. Maintain temperatures of 70-75°F. Seedlings are slow-growing; be patient.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops bushy foliage with multiple stems and lance-shaped leaves. No flowers yet.
Pinch back growing tips to encourage branching. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth. Feed with balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks.
Flowering Initiation
2-3 weeksTerminal flower spikes begin to form at stem tips. Plant becomes more compact.
Transition to fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium to promote blooming. Ensure consistent moisture and full sun.
Flowering
8-12 weeks or until frostDense spikes of brilliant scarlet red tubular flowers appear. Flowers open progressively along the spike over several weeks.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Water regularly. Maintain temperatures above 50°F. Feed every 2 weeks with flowering plant fertilizer.
Decline/End of Season
2-4 weeks before frostFlowering slows as temperatures cool in fall. Plant may become leggy or decline in colder climates.
In zones 3-8, enjoy until frost and remove plant. In zones 9-11, cut back hard in late fall to encourage new growth in spring.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe. Increase humidity around plants.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Apply every 5-7 days as needed.
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Spray with water to remove. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Improve air circulation. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide. Remove affected leaves. Avoid overhead watering.
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Remove affected stems. Improve air circulation. Water at soil level only. Reduce humidity if possible.
Uses
Herbal Tea
CulinaryWhile primarily ornamental, some Salvia species can be used for tea. The leaves have a mild herbal flavor and can be dried for infusions. [source]
Hummingbird & Pollinator Magnet
WildlifeThe tubular scarlet flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds, ruby-throated birds in particular, and attract numerous bees and butterflies for pollination. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftThe showy red flower spikes make excellent long-lasting cut flowers for fresh arrangements and bouquets. [source]
Garden Borders & Edging
HouseholdScarlet Mint Bush creates stunning visual impact in flower beds, borders, and container gardens, providing color from summer through frost. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalVarious Salvia species have been used in traditional medicine. Some cultivars may have mild antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory properties, 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
No harvesting needed for ornamental use. For cut flowers, cut stems in early morning when flowers are fully hydrated. Remove lower leaves and place in fresh water immediately. Scarlet Mint Bush flowers last 7-10 days in a vase.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Scarlet Mint Bush is native to Brazil and was named 'splendens' (meaning 'splendid' in Latin) for its spectacular bright red flowers that seem to glow in the garden.
- 🌱 The plant is exceptionally attractive to hummingbirds—a single spike can draw multiple hummingbirds competing to feed on the tubular flowers rich in nectar.
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'Mint Bush,' Scarlet Mint Bush is not actually a mint but a member of the Salvia (sage) genus, which is closely related to culinary sage.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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