Light. Flowers best in full sun. It grows in partial or full shade, but blooms less there.
Water. Water young plants until they establish. After that it is very drought tolerant and needs no extra water.
Soil and feeding. It likes moist, well-drained sandy soil with some organic matter, acidic or alkaline. Feed with a balanced slow-release fertilizer each spring.
Size. Usually 2–3 ft tall and 1–2 ft wide, though some plants reach 4 ft. Space plants 24–36 inches apart.
Pruning. Cut it back when flowering ends and the stems start to die, or after a freeze. It reseeds, so expect seedlings nearby.
Problems to watch. No serious pests or diseases.
Good to know. A Florida native that blooms all year here, peaking in spring. Butterflies and hummingbirds visit the flowers, and it handles salty wind.
Sources: UF/IFAS Ask IFAS (EDIS): FP519 Salvia coccinea Scarlet Salvia, Scarlet Sage · Natives for Your Neighborhood (Institute for Regional Conservation): Salvia coccinea · UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions: Salvias
