Russian Sage - Classic Perennial Border Plants Pollinators will Adore
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a beloved perennial known for its airy spires of lavender-blue flowers and silvery, aromatic foliage that glows in sunlight. Blooming from midsummer through fall, it provides a long season of color when many perennials are fading. This drought-tolerant, deer-resistant plant thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it a perfect choice for low-maintenance and pollinator-friendly landscapes. With its wispy texture and light fragrance, Russian sage adds a graceful, meadow-like charm to sunny borders and cottage gardens.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for sunny borders, xeriscapes, and pollinator gardens
Creates a striking backdrop or filler plant for lower-growing perennials
Pairs beautifully with coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and ornamental grasses
Ideal for hot, dry slopes or gravel gardens where other plants may struggle
Provides late-season color and movement in the landscape
Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
Planting Tips - Russian Sage
Choose a full-sun location with well-drained or sandy soil
Space plants about 24–36 inches apart to allow for mature spread
Water regularly until established; once rooted, Russian sage is very drought-tolerant
Avoid rich or heavy soils that retain water—poor, lean soil encourages stronger stems
Cut stems back to about 12 inches in early spring to stimulate vigorous new growth
Do not overfertilize—excess nutrients can cause floppy stems and reduced blooms
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Perovskia Atriplicifolia |
| Variety Name: | Blue Steel |
| Height: | 16″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 5-9 |
| Sun or Shade: | Full sun |
| Plant Classification: | Perennial |
| Planting Season: | Late Spring |
| Bloom Season: | Summer – Fall |
| Bloom Cycle: | Continuous |
| Bloom Duration: | 2 months |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Average, medium moisture well-draining soils |
| Water Requirements: | Low |
Troubleshooting - Russian Sage
Flopping or weak stems: Typically from too much shade or rich soil; prune hard in spring and avoid overfeeding
Poor flowering: Caused by insufficient sunlight; relocate to a sunnier area
Root rot: May occur in heavy, waterlogged soil; improve drainage or amend with sand and gravel
Winter dieback: Normal in colder climates; plants will reemerge from the base in spring
FAQ - Russian Sage
Q: Is Russian sage invasive?
A: No, Russian sage spreads slowly by rhizomes but is not considered invasive. It can be easily managed by dividing clumps every few years.
Q: Is Russian sage toxic to pets or people?
A: No, Russian sage is non-toxic and safe to grow around pets and people.
Q: How tall does this plant sage get?
A: Mature plants typically reach 3–5 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide, forming airy, upright mounds.
Q: Will it attract pollinators?
A: Absolutely—it’s a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout its long blooming season.