The Stunning Red Flower That's Becoming A Garden Must For Attracting Hummingbirds

If you're looking for garden ideas for spring, it's never a bad time to start a pollinator garden. Not only do pollinators enact an essential function for agriculture, but they also serve as natural pest control and even help clean the air. Some pollinators like bees and bats aren't as well-loved, but many gardeners create pollinator gardens to attract hummingbirds. Like many creatures, hummingbirds have favorite flowers, but there's one in particular that's become popular for garden enthusiasts to get their attention in spring. The Hot Lips salvia (Salvia microphylla), also known as Baby Sage, is an evergreen shrub identifiable for its brilliant red and white flowers. 

Hummingbirds and other pollinators are drawn to many brilliant blooms, including some with boozy-sounding names or cheerful yellow flowers. While not all plants may fit into the garden you're planning, Hot Lips salvia in particular is known for being a hardy perennial with a nice aromatic scent, tolerant of pruning, and, above all, a hummingbird favorite.

Much like what draws hummingbirds to feeders, these teeny creatures are known for being attracted to the color red. As Hot Lips salvia is vivid red and white, it makes sense why hummingbirds would flock to these plants. Hot Lips salvia flowers are also cylindrical, making them perfect for hummingbirds' long beaks to dip down and grab nectar. It's a great addition to any garden, not only for attracting pollinators but also because it's pretty drought-hardy, being native to USDA Zones 8-10. Another benefit of adding Hot Lips salvia to your garden is its resistance to deer and rabbits.

That said, if you plant Hot Lips salvia and live in a warmer climate, ensure that it gets partial shade. Additionally, to maintain Hot Lips salvia in your garden, you'll want to plant in well-drained soil and provide moderate watering. If you live in a slightly cooler USDA zone, you should also plan to protect the base of the plant from frost.

If you're stuck on where to put Hot Lips salvia or how to incorporate it into a theme, try adding it to cottage or coastal gardens for a pop of color, or using it as a flower border. You can also plant Hot Lips salvia next to plants such as marigolds or basil without issue. Hot Lips salvia is also a great plant to put in pots or containers!