August Plant of the Month: Russian Sage

Russian Sage, formerly identified as Perovskia atriplicifolia, in 2004 was reclassified as a sage — Salvia yangii — after genetic testing. Not everyone uses the plant’s new classification and its name change had no effect on its reputation as an easily grown, drought tolerant, attractive woody sub-shrub. Its feathery silver foliage is an eye-catching foil to its long-lasting panicles of small two-lipped blue flowers. It is grown to its best advantage in full sun reaching a height of four feet. It may benefit from some support, especially if grown in partial shade.

Russian Sage should be planted in early spring to help it establish before hot weather sets in and should be cut back almost to the ground as new growth appears in early spring. It spreads by underground runners, so keep an eye out to contain it in the space you have allotted it in your garden.

In 1995 Russian Sage was the Perennial Plant Association Plant of the Year.

You can view Russian sage in the gardens on the Carnahan Quad.

Several cultivars exist, including:
Perovskia 'Little Spire', a  one to two foot dwarf variety with a similar spread; Perovskia 'Blue Spire' with deep blue-violet flowers on three foot plants; Perovskia 'Longin', with a more rigid and narrow growth habit and slightly larger leaves; and  Perovskia ' Blue Haze’ with dark blue flowers and even more solid leaves.