Autumn Sage Furman's Red

Plant Type: evergreen perennial/shrub
Plant Height: 2–3 feet
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: vibrant red
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Autumn Sage ‘Furman’s Red’ (Salvia greggii): Vibrant Color and Pollinator Magnet

‘Furman’s Red’ Autumn Sage is a standout selection of Salvia greggii, prized for its masses of vivid red flowers and compact, bushy form. Blooming heavily from spring through fall, it’s a favorite for pollinator gardens, adding both beauty and ecological value to Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of Autumn Sage ‘Furman’s Red’

• Long Blooming Season: Produces vibrant red flowers for months, peaking in spring and fall.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
• Compact Evergreen Form: Tidy shrub with aromatic foliage that stays neat year-round.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in Arizona’s hot, dry climate once established.

Growing and Care Tips

Autumn Sage is one of the toughest salvias for desert gardens.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soils; avoid heavy clay unless amended.
Water: Moderate during establishment; afterward, water every 10–14 days in summer for best blooms.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Pruning: Shear lightly after bloom flushes to encourage repeat flowering and maintain shape.

Landscaping Uses

• Borders & Edging: Great along walkways and garden beds.
• Pollinator Gardens: Excellent for attracting hummingbirds and beneficial insects.
• Accent Plant: Adds a burst of color in xeriscape or Mediterranean-style plantings.
• Mass Plantings: Stunning in groups for a bold seasonal display.

Summary

Autumn Sage ‘Furman’s Red’ combines durability, long-lasting color, and pollinator appeal. With its drought tolerance and nonstop blooms, it’s a must-have perennial shrub for Arizona landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Autumn Sage ‘Furman’s Red’

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil.
Spacing: Plant 2–3 feet apart.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—naturally upright habit.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deep water after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months of consistent watering and visible new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10–14 days; more frequent watering boosts bloom cycles.
• Winter: Water every 3–4 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1 emitter 8–12 inches from base.
Flow Rate: 0.5–1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One per plant; two for mature shrubs.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during peak summer heat; reduce in cooler seasons.

General Watering Tips for Autumn Sage ‘Furman’s Red’:

• Soil Check: Allow the top 2–3 inches to dry before rewatering.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water reduces bloom production.
• Mulch: Apply gravel mulch to help conserve moisture and reduce weeds.