RUSSIAN SAGE
Plays well with others.
I love the hardy, deer-resistant perennial Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)!
It is a reliable summer bloomer with lavender/blue flowers that thrives on neglect (USDA Zone 4 – 9). Perhaps its resilience is why it was named the Perennial Plant of the Year by the Perennial Plant Association way back in 1995. Its long-lasting spires of feathery flowers and silvery, aromatic foliage on upright stems are a fantastic addition to any sunny garden. Blooms July – September.
This no-fuss plant grows from 2 to 4 feet tall and loves dry conditions and well-drained, lean soil. Not too much compost or fertilizer for this plant!
It makes an excellent companion to ornamental grasses. The airy haze of soft blue works well against summer flowers like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, perennial blue salvia and daylilies.
I like to pair it with bold foliage plants like yuccas and agaves. They all like the heat and the contrast between the delicate, filigree blooms and sculptural agaves is eye-catching. Perfect for a silver blue garden!
There are many varieties of Perovskia. 'Blue Spires' Russian sage, is a vigorous 48 inch tall variety with long blooming, dark-blue flower spikes. The compact, 30 – 34 inch high, ‘Blue Jean Baby’ is one of the earliest Russian sages to bloom. Its spires of purple flowers appear in midsummer and last until fall. Plant in a mass for a stunning effect.
In early spring, cut back to 6-12” above the soil, leaving a few strong buds. Remove some of the oldest branches down to the base to allow new growth to spring up. Plant in large masses for an eye-catching display!
