RHS Plants
RHS Plants

Shop

Information & Help

My account

Salvia microphylla 'Cerro Potosi'

sage

RHS award of garden merit Perfect for pollinators New
Product Image
Bright magenta-pink flowers held above aromatic green foliage make this compact shrub a standout in borders and containers. Flowering freely from midsummer until late autumn, it provides months of vibrant colour while drawing in bees and other pollinators. The evergreen leaves release a pleasant scent when brushed, adding another layer of interest through the year.

Salvia microphylla ‘Cerro Potosi’ thrives in sunny, well-drained positions and copes well with dry conditions once established, reflecting its origins in the mountains of Mexico. Low-maintenance and long-flowering, it suits cottage gardens, mixed borders, and patio pots where reliable colour and pollinator appeal are priorities. A light trim after flowering keeps the plant neat and encourages strong new growth for the following season.

How to care for Salvia microphylla Cerro Potosi:

When planting, improve drainage by incorporating compost and adding horticultural grit or sand to heavier soils. Space plants 30-45cm (12-18in) apart and water thoroughly.

Deadhead spent flower spikes promptly to encourage continuous blooming. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of composted bark or gravel in early spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid manure-based mulches, which can be too rich.

Feed with a high-potash fertiliser, such as tomato feed, once growth resumes in spring to promote flowering. Water regularly during dry spells but ensure the soil remains well-drained to prevent root rot.

In colder regions, it may die back, so provide winter protection by applying a dry mulch around the base or lifting and potting up plants to overwinter in a frost-free location.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.6m
Position:

Full sun

Rate of growth:

Fast-growing

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)

Product options

1
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Standard Delivery£5.99

Goes well with
Add to wishlist

Large balloon bowl planter - sand

From £359.00
View options
Add to wishlist

Rectangular dolly pot - aged zinc

£43.99
View details
Add to wishlist

Terracotta salvia pot

From £149.99
View options
Become an RHS Member today and save 30% on your first year
Join now

Keep in touch

View our Privacy Policy
Contact us
Cookies
Terms
Privacy

© RHS Enterprises Limited 2026
Registered in England & Wales No. 01211648. | VAT No. GB461532757 | Registered Office: 80 Vincent Square, London, SW1P 2PE.

All sales help fund the charitable work of the RHS.