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Perovskia atriplicifolia, Russian Sage 'Little Spire' (photo by Rosana Brien / My Garden Plot)

How To Grow Russian Sage

About Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage)

The Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) has olive or silver green foliage and small violet or blue flowers that add interest in sunny summer and fall gardens. It has a long blooming season from mid-summer through to autumn (fall). And its wispy vertical ‘bleached’ woody stems add interest during the winter months. This easy to grow and hardy perennial is native to the Caucasus region (located between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea). More tips below on where to plant and how to grow Russian sage.

As with the sea holly (Eryngium), the Russian sage is salt-tolerant and drought-resistant once established. It blends in beautifully in south-facing gardens, attracting butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. The leaf is fragrant and smells similar to the culinary sage plant. It looks lovely grouped with evergreens, or for a summery cottage garden design plant with daisy-like flowers. And is suitable for container gardening. When it comes to low maintenance and year-round interest, the Russian sage is a good choice for a mixed perennial border.

Perovskia atriplicifolia - Russian Sage (photo by Rosana Brien / My Garden Plot)
Perovskia atriplicifolia - Russian Sage (photo by Rosana Brien / My Garden Plot)

Russian Sage At A Glance

Type: Perennial

Location: Full Sun

Blooming Season: Summer / Autumn (Fall)

When To Prune: Cut Back Late Winter / Early Spring

Size Height / Spread: 1.2 x 1 metres (4 x 3 ft)

Plant Hardiness Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

RECOMMENDED COMPANION PLANT: Echinacea (coneflower) plant

Where To Plant And How To Grow Russian Sage

The Russian sage is hardy and requires little care. It tolerates poor soil conditions and is drought tolerant once established. The Russian sage should be planted in spring in well-drained soil and in a location that receives full sun to thrive. Avoid soggy and wet sites. Allow the soil to dry between watering. Additional fertilizer is not needed.

Pruning Russian Sage

In late winter or early spring, cut back the Russian sage to the ground level to encourage new growth.

Pests And Diseases That Affect Russian Sage

The Russian sage is generally trouble-free, as well as being rabbit and deer resistant.

OTHER DROUGHT-RESISTANT PERENNIALS: Sun-loving red hot poker (Kniphofia) plant