Salvia splendens 'Van Houttei' is a Dutch antique cultivar of the species, developed before ankle-biter annuals became all the rage. Growing up to 4 feet in height, this great annual (perennial in USDA Zones 7 and warmer) with burgundy-reddish flowers is perfect to use toward the back of borders, where earlier-flowering perennials and shrubs have faded away. The flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds, and the foliage is deer and rabbit resistant.