Items 1 to 6 of 6 total
Items 1 to 6 of 6 total
Russian Sage
Uses:
- Borders
- Xeriscaping
- Pollinator Gardens
Features:
- Deer Resistant
- Drought Tolerant
- Attracts Butterflies and Bees
- Aromatic Leaves
Sunlight:
- Full Sun
- 6+ Hours of Direct Sun
Growing Zones:
- 4-9
- What is My Zone?
Russian sage is a tough perennial with a long blooming period. The tiny lavender-blue blooms cover the stems in mid-summer and attract butterflies and bees. These hard-working plants also have silver, aromatic foliage that adds fine texture to the back of a planting. Use Russian sage in xeriscapes, cottage gardens, and Mediterranean-themed plantings.
About Russian Sage
Genus
Species
Family
Perovskia
Atriplicifolia, abrotanoides, 'Blue Steel', 'Crazy Blue', 'Rocketman', 'Denim 'n Lace'
Lamiaceae
Common Names:
Perovskia atriplicifolia
Native To:
Iran, Afghanistan
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Semi-Evergreen, Deciduous, Herbaceous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
4 - 9
Flower Color:
Flower Bloom Time:
Mid to late summer
Growth Habit:
Clumping, Spreading, Upright
Attracts:
Bees, Butterflies
Tolerates:
Drought, Heat, Harsh Winters
Resists:
Deer, Rabbits, Voles, Moles, Diseases, Pests
How To Use Russian Sage In The Garden
Russian sage's filigreed, silvery foliage and haze of lavender-blue flowers create a stirring late-summer spectacle. Each slender stem releases a subtle herbal fragrance when touched, hinting at its mint-family heritage. Tough and deeply rooted, this perennial shrugs off drought conditions and remains unbothered by deer or rabbits. Pollinators hover around the small, tubular blooms, drawn by the steady supply of nectar.
Russian sage makes an excellent backdrop in perennial borders due to its tall, airy stems. It's also effective in cottage gardens and Mediterranean-themed landscapes, where it can be paired with gold or white perennials for an attractive contrast. Its drought tolerance makes it suitable for xeriscapes and areas with water restrictions. In smaller gardens, let one showy specimen claim a corner, its airy spires adding height and seasonal drama.
Russian Sage Care
Plant Russian sage in well-drained soil to prevent root rot, as it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water newly planted specimens 1-2 times a week, tapering off to a deep soak every other week to encourage deep root growth. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Only fertilize lightly if soil is poor.
Prune Russian sage in early spring by removing the previous year’s top growth to reveal fresh new shoots. In areas with severe winter weather, plant this perennial near a building or grow it in a container that can be moved to a protected spot in the winter. For container growth, choose a planter with a diameter at least 2-3 inches larger than the root ball, and use an all-purpose potting mix with plenty of perlite for excellent drainage.
Learn More About Russian Sage
Pruning Russian Sage
Should I deadhead Russian Sage?
Deadheading is not necessary for Russian Sage. The best time to cut back Russian Sage is in early spring before new growth emerges. Cut the stems back to about 4 inches above the ground. Some people choose to cut this plant back in the fall, but the stems provide some protection during the winter, along with winter interest, so it's best to leave them in place over the winter. These plants may die back in northern zones but will resprout in the spring.
I can cut back Russian Sage?
Russian Sage grows quickly during the summer and may become floppy. To promote a compact form, cut the plant back by half after blooming. Pruning may also be required if you have yellowed or dead stems; just remove them at ground level.