salvia

noun

sal·​via ˈsal-vē-ə 

: any of a large and widely distributed genus (Salvia) of herbs and shrubs of the mint family having a 2-lipped open calyx and two anthers

especially : one (S. splendens) with scarlet flowers

Examples of salvia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Or plant the shorter red salvia in the flower bed or in a pot. —Patricia S York, Southern Living, 21 Apr. 2026

As summer arrives, salvia — especially red varieties — delivers long blooming periods and is highly attractive to hummingbirds. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2026

Salvia, especially red salvia, is a long-blooming plant that is highly attractive to hummingbirds. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Apr. 2026

Hummingbirds are drawn to red flowers, so planting petunias, salvia and hibiscus around your home and garden can help attract them. —Jordan Green, Memphis Commercial Appeal, 6 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin, sage — more at sage

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for salvia

• bivalvia

Medical Definition

salvia

noun

sal·​via ˈsal-vē-ə 

1

capitalized : a genus of widely distributed herbs or shrubs of the mint family (Lamiaceae) including the sage (S. officinalis)

2

: any herb or shrub of the genus Salvia