The Botanical Alphabet is a gardening and

typography project in which for each plant,

chosen from among the most beautiful

of the entire world's flora,

we have matched a typeface in an iconic

typographic style, for the pleasure of the soul

and mind and for a greener world.

A brand-new way to combine the joy of gardening

with the art of personal expression.

Spell out names, words, or special messages

with the eco-friendly seed packets,

each representing a letter of the alphabet.

S - SCARLET SAGE

THE PLANT

Gorgeous spikes of bright red flowers on bushy,

dark foliage. Visited by birds for its seeds.

THE TYPE

Paul Renner’s Futura Black, an avant-garde typeface

from the 1930s designed to mimic the use of a stencil.

Details:

Name: Scarlet sage

Latin name: Salvia coccinea

Seed quantity: 0,1 grams

Packet size: 9 x12,5 cm

Packet material: Made from paper produced

using tomato waste fibers, it can be disposed

of in biodegradable waste

Plant size: 60-90 cm height, 30-45 cm spread

Container size: Minimum 25 cm diameter

HOW TO GROW

SOWING

Outdoor Late spring, after last frost

Indoor 6-8 weeks before last frost

GERMINATION

Time 10-14 days

Temperature 20-25°C

HOW TO SOW

Direct sow Sow seeds on soil surface; press lightly but do not cover

Indoor Surface-sow in trays with good light exposure

CARING

Light Full sun to partial shade 

Watering Moderate; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged 

Soil Well-drained, sandy to loamy soil

Feeding Light feeding with balanced fertilizer during growing season

GROWING TIP

Scarlet Sage attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more

blooms throughout the season.

HARVESTING

Scarlet Sage attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.

Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms

throughout the season.

INTERESTING FACTS

Fun fact 1

Scarlet Sage is native to the southeastern United States

and is often used in pollinator gardens for its vivid red flowers.

Fun fact 2

Known for its medicinal properties, Scarlet Sage has been

used traditionally for various herbal remedies.