1995 Perennial Plant of the Year

Perovskia atriplicifolia

Russian Sage

Perovskia atriplicifolia

Photo Credit: Stonehouse Nursery

Perovskia atriplicifolia

Photo Credit: Stonehouse Nursery


Perovskia atriplicifolia

Russian Sage

This full-sized Perovskia is excellent for massing in large landscapes where low maintenance plantings are desired. Pollinators flock to its huge panicles of soft lavender blue flowers which persist for several months at the height of summer. Its silvery green, fragrant foliage is rarely bothered by pests. Thrives in heat.

Plant Details

  • Zone: 4 - 9
  • Height: 36-48"
  • Spread: 36-48"
  • Exposure: Full Sun
  • Soil Moisture: Low Water Needs, Moderate Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: Yes, Once Established
  • Bloom time: Early Fall, Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Green Shades, Silver-Gray Shades
  • Flower Color: Blue Shades, Purple Shades
  • Fragrant: Yes
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Not native to North America
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Attracts butterflies: Yes
  • Attracts hummingbirds: Yes
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: Yes

Plant Details

  • Zone: 4 - 9
  • Height: 36-48"
  • Spread: 36-48"
  • Exposure: Full Sun
  • Soil Moisture: Low Water Needs, Moderate Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: Yes, Once Established
  • Bloom time: Early Fall, Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Green Shades, Silver-Gray Shades
  • Flower Color: Blue Shades, Purple Shades
  • Fragrant: Yes
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Not native to North America
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Attracts butterflies: Yes
  • Attracts hummingbirds: Yes
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: Yes

Grower Information

  • PowerPlug Size(s): 32s
  • Optimal Planting Time: Late Summer-Fall
  • Retail Sales Window: Fall, Summer
  • Moisture in Production: Average, Low
  • Requires Shade in Production: No
  • Vernalization Required for Bloom: Yes
  • Vernalization Beneficial: No