Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage)

Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) is a bushy, woody-based deciduous perennial with long terminal panicles of small, lavender-blue flowers, borne on thin white stems, clad with finely-dissected, aromatic gray-green leaves. Blooming for weeks from mid-summer to fall, this delicate-looking plant is a toughy that is resistant to drought, heat, pests, and poor soils. Pretty and excellent for xeriscaping, its long blooming season, makes it an extremely valuable addition to the garden – even in winter when the stems create a beautiful feature in the landscape.

• Perennial Plant of the Year in 1995
• Typically grows up to 3-4 ft. tall and wide (90-120 cm).
• Performs best in full sun, in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Drought and salt tolerant.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Attracts scores of pollinating bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
• Russian Sage looks stunning in dry landscapes with other desert plants, in cottage or Mediterranean gardens, whether planted as singles or in clusters to intensify its presence, or even in a linear mass for knot gardens or small divider hedges. It associates wonderfully with other gray-leaved plants such as Lavender and contrasts beautifully with the bright colors of Echinacea (Coneflower), Helenium (Sneezeweed), and clump-forming grasses.
• Cut back plants almost to the ground in late winter to early spring as soon as new growth appears.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in summer
• Perovskia atriplicifolia is native to Central Asia (Afghanistan, Pakistan, etc.) and Tibet at elevations to 8,000 ft.