Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Perovskia atriplicifolia
Russian Sage

- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Height
- 36–48 inches
- Width
- 36–48 inches
- Flower color
- Lavender-blue
- Foliage color
- Silvery-green
- Bloom time
- Mid-summer to fall
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Medium; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance
- Low; prune back in early spring to promote vigorous growth
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5–9
- Wildlife
- Attracts bees and butterflies; deer-resistant
About this plant
Perovskia atriplicifolia, commonly known as Russian sage, is a woody-based perennial native to the steppes and hills of southwestern and central Asia, including regions like Afghanistan, Iran, China, and Pakistan. It blooms from mid-summer to late autumn, producing lavender-blue flowers arranged in airy panicles that create a haze of color above the aromatic, gray-green foliage.
The plant's square stems and finely dissected leaves contribute to its delicate, lacy appearance. Notably, the foliage emits a sage-like aroma when crushed. Russian sage is valued for its drought tolerance and adaptability to various soil conditions, thriving in full sun and adding a soft, flowing element to garden landscapes.
Works well in
Borders · Sun Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Coneflowers · Salvias · Shasta daisies · Asters · Catmint · Coreopsis
Design tip
Late flowers extend the season, so set it behind or beside plants that finish in midsummer. Give it open sun and room to fill out, and repeat it in threes or fives so the planting reads as one sweep instead of scattered dots.
