Russian Sage

With airy spires of small purple-blue flowers and finely cut gray-green foliage on upright gray-white stems, Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) adds a haze of color from midsummer into fall, blending with any palette. Semi-woody, drought-tolerant, trouble-free mint family member.

About This Plant

Aromatic leaves when crushed. Most reach 3–5 feet. Hardy Zones 5–9, struggles in hot, humid summers. Many sold as P. atriplicifolia are hybrids (P. x hybrida). Excellent for water-wise gardens.

Popular Cultivars

• 'Blue Mist': Paler blue flowers.
• 'Longin': Upright, narrow habit.
• 'Little Spire': ~2 feet, upright.
• 'Filigran': Finely dissected leaves, airier look.

Site Selection

Full sun, well-drained, even dry soil of average fertility.

Planting Instructions

Container plants anytime. Space 2–3 feet. Loosen soil 12–15 inches, add 2–4 inches compost. Plant at container depth, water thoroughly.

Care

If floppy, pinch back by half in early summer at ~1 foot tall. Cut back to ~1 foot in fall or leave for winter interest. Cut to ~6 inches in spring. Northern plants may die to ground; wait to see survival before hard pruning. In long seasons, if flowering stops after first flush, cut by half for second flush. Water new plants if dry; established are drought-tolerant.