Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a hardy, sun-loving perennial valued for its airy clouds of lavender-blue flowers and finely textured silver-gray foliage. The aromatic leaves form a soft, upright clump that gives the plant a light, almost misty appearance in the landscape. From mid-summer into fall, tall stems carry branching spikes of small violet-blue blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its drought tolerance and prairie heritage make it an excellent choice for dry gardens, xeriscapes, and modern perennial borders where its silvery foliage contrasts beautifully with bold greens and warm-colored flowers.
- Size: Height: 90–120 cm (3–4 ft). Spread: 75–90 cm (30–36 in)
- Flower spikes: 30–45 cm (12–18 in) airy panicles
- Bloom time: Mid-summer to early fall
- Light: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates sandy, rocky, or clay soils
- Water: Low once established; highly drought tolerant
- Hardiness: Zones 4–9
- Maintenance: Cut back to 15–20 cm (6–8 in) in early spring before new growth appears
- Spacing: Plant 75–90 cm apart