🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Primarily used as an ornamental plant in permaculture gardens, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. The foliage has a sage-like aroma and can be used in potpourri. Though not a culinary sage, it is drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and requires minimal maintenance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-input designs.
Permapeople description
A popular garden plant known for its silvery foliage and long-lasting blue flowers.
Botanical description
Perovskia atriplicifolia, commonly known as Russian Sage, is a deciduous subshrub in the Lamiaceae (mint) family. It typically grows to a height of 2-4 feet and a spread of 2-3 feet. The plant features woody stems and aromatic, grayish-green, deeply divided leaves that are opposite and lance-shaped. It produces long, airy panicles of small, lavender-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The silvery-gray stems and foliage provide year-round interest, even after the flowers fade. It is native to the steppes and hills of Central Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tibet.
Companion planting
Pairs well with other drought-tolerant perennials like Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Sedum, and ornamental grasses. Its silvery foliage provides a nice contrast to plants with darker green foliage. Avoid planting in overly wet or shady conditions.
Propagation methods
Can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood), or division of established clumps. Seed propagation requires stratification. Cuttings are generally more reliable and faster. Division is best done in spring or fall.
History and traditions
Despite its common name, Russian Sage is not native to Russia. Its traditional uses are not as widely documented as true sages (Salvia species), but it has been grown for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes for its beauty, drought tolerance, and attractiveness to pollinators. Its fragrant foliage has also been historically used in potpourri and dried floral arrangements.
Usage calendar
Flowering: July to September. Planting: Spring or Fall. Pruning: Late Winter or Early Spring, cut back hard to promote bushier growth and more flowers.