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 tough and 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.