Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage)

Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) is an attractive deciduous sub-shrub or woody based perennial with silvery stems bearing an airy cloud of blue to lavender in mid-summer to early fall. Attracting pollinating bees and hummingbirds, the tiny tubular flowers are arranged in whorls along the stems. The upright, stiff stems are clad with aromatic, gray-green leaves. Adding long-lasting color to the landscape, this delicate-looking plant is a tough plant that is resistant to drought, heat and poor soils. Because of its aromatic foliage and woody stems, few pests, including deer, ever bother it.

• Perovskia atriplicifolia is native to Central Asia (Afghanistan, Pakistan, etc.) and Tibet at elevations to 8,000 ft. Perfect for hot, dry climates, this pretty member of the mint family (Labiateae) is also exceptionally cold hardy in zones 4-9.
• Perovskia atriplicifolia species grows 3-4 ft. tall and wide (90-120 cm). There are also several beautiful cultivars available that are more compact than the species and are great for small gardens.
  Perovskia 'Little Spire' grows only 18-24 in. tall and wide (45-60 cm).
  A little taller, Perovskia 'Crazyblue' grows 28-30 in. tall (70-75 cm) but only 14-16 in. wide (35-40 cm).
• Russian Sage tends to flop a little, particularly when young. It can be staked, or planted near other plants that will support them. A Russian sage cultivar, Perovskia 'Denim 'n Lace' is more upright in habit than older varieties and is noted for its stronger stems that do not spill over onto their neighbors.