Salvia splendens 'Bonfire'
Salvia splendens ‘Bonfire’ is an older, taller scarlet sage cultivar often used for strong mid to back border color. It is grown as an annual in most of North America and does not tolerate frost. This cultivar is sometimes associated with the name ‘Clara Bedman’ in horticultural references. It performs best in full sun with steady moisture and well drained soil. Flowering typically runs from summer toward frost, with the best display in warm weather. Taller growth can add structure, but spacing and airflow matter in humid climates.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: cultivar selection
- Height × spread: about 26 in tall by about 9 to 18 in wide (66 cm tall by about 23 to 46 cm wide)
- Bloom window: summer to frost (varies by climate)
- Color & flower form: scarlet red tubular flowers on upright spikes
- Fragrance: 0
- USDA hardiness: tender perennial in zones 10 to 11, grown as annual in most of North America
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut-flower notes: not typically used as a cut flower
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- Typically taller than compact modern series used for edging.
- Better suited for mid bed height and background blocks of red.
- May need more spacing than dwarf bedding types.
Strengths
- Strong vertical spikes for bold color blocks.
- Useful where extra height is needed without shrubs.
- Performs well in warm season public plantings when watered well.
Care in one minute
- Site: sun, airflow, and good drainage.
- Light: full sun is best.
- Soil and drainage: well drained soil, avoid waterlogging.
- Water: even moisture, especially during heat.
- Feeding: moderate feeding, avoid excess nitrogen.
- Grooming: remove old spikes for repeat bloom cycles.
Watch‑outs
- Can lean in shade or in overly rich soil that pushes soft growth.
- Crowding can increase problems in humid weather.
Best uses (tags)
borders, mass planting, mid bed height, warm season color, public plantings
Provenance note
‘Bonfire’ is a long established scarlet sage cultivar and is also noted under the name ‘Clara Bedman’ in some extension references.
References
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC, Salvia factsheet (includes ‘Bonfire’ and ‘Clara Bedman’)
UF IFAS Environmental Horticulture, Salvia splendens (general culture and cultivar size variation)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us