Salvia gesneriiflora is a herbaceous perennial native to the mountain regions of Mexico. It is one of largest Salvia and has been known to grow to 7m tall in the wild.
When grown in gardens it tends be much smaller growing to about 2m by 1.5m. These are best appreciated when planted in large borders and gardens
The leaves are heart shaped, mid-green, slightly hairy and strongly aromatic. The leaf spacing along the stem is quite long and the leaves become smaller towards the flower head.
The flowers are tubular, two lipped, orange-red in colour and arranged in whorls around the stem. The stem and calyx colour varies depending on the form, they can be green or purple. The purple cultivar form is known as 'Tequila'. The main flowering time is during late winter and early spring however they tend to spot flower throughout the year if not prune right back in summer.
These Salvia species will tolerate heat and humidity so grow well in climates similar to Sydney's. Despite being tolerant of humidity it is important to ensure there is good air circulation around the plant.
When choosing contrasting plants for your border Betty Clebesch recommends combining these Salvia with large clumping grasses such as Miscanthus sinsensis. The grasses fill the bed and flower during the summer when the Salvias have been cut back and remain to add contrast during the winter with the Salvia are in flower.