Salvia coccinea, commonly known as “Lady in Red“, is a tropical perennial that captivates with its vibrant blooms and ease of cultivation.
Native to the warm regions of Central and South America, this member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) stands out with its striking clusters of bright red, tubular flowers. In tropical climates, it can grow up to a metre tall, while in temperate zones, it is often grown as an annual, typically reaching around 50 centimetres in height.
The foliage of Salvia coccinea – or Lady in Red – is a rich green, with softly serrated, oval-shaped leaves.
When crushed, the leaves release a delicate scent reminiscent of its mint relatives. Flowering from June to October, it attracts a wide range of pollinators, including hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it a perfect choice for those who love lively, colourful gardens.
At the Au Bois Vert Botanical Garden, near Ivato in Antananarivo, Lady in Red is beautifully integrated into floral borders and beds.
Beyond its ornamental value, it thrives in the local climate and complements the surroundings of the nearby hotel and lodge, offering bursts of colour to diners at the adjacent restaurant. Thanks to its hardiness and low maintenance needs, it is a reliable favourite for both novice and seasoned gardeners.
Plant use
In horticulture, Salvia coccinea is valued for its versatility, aesthetic appeal, and ease of care, making it suitable for a variety of settings. In a botanical garden such as Au Bois Vert, it plays an important role by attracting pollinators essential to maintaining local biodiversity. The vibrant blooms of Lady in Red pair beautifully with other tropical or Mediterranean plants, creating a striking and harmonious visual display that captivates visitors. Hospitality professionals, like those at Au Bois Vert in Ivato, make the most of this plant to enhance outdoor areas such as terraces and pathways leading to the lodges. Gardeners often use it in borders or flower beds to add structure and vibrancy to the landscape. Its long flowering season ensures a steady splash of colour throughout the warmer months. Salvia coccinea also features in ecological projects aimed at boosting pollination. The bees and butterflies it attracts support the balance of the local ecosystem, helping nearby crops and green spaces to thrive. In a domestic setting, it can be grown in pots to brighten up balconies or patios. With modest water needs and the ability to adapt to various soil types, it’s an excellent choice for dry gardens. In short, this elegant plant offers much more than ornamental value — it serves as a symbol of biodiversity and a valuable asset for landmark sites like the Au Bois Vert botanical garden.
Key information
| Common name | Lady in Red |
| Scientific name | Salvia coccinea |
| Origin | South and Central America |
| Natural habitat | Tropical regions, roadsides, clearings |
| Life cycle | Perennial in warm climates, annual elsewhere |
| Flowering period | Summer to autumn (June to October) |
