How to Care for Russian Sage

Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a shrubby, deciduous plant with pale-gray stems and silvery, gray foliage on plants that grow as tall as 5 feet at maturity. Tiny, tube-shaped blooms appear on Russian sage in late summer, lasting into autumn. Flower colors range from pale blue to deep violet, depending on the variety. Although Russian sage releases a pungent aroma when the leaves are crushed, Russian sage isn't used for cooking. Native to Pakistan and Afghanistan, Russian sage will grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones 5 to 8.

Things You'll Need

• Garden shears

Instructions

1. Plant Russian sage in full sunlight. Although Russian sage may survive in partial shade, the plant may be long and leggy rather than full and bushy. Russian sage will thrive in nearly any well-drained soil.

2. Allow Russian sage to grow without being crowded by other plants, as Russian sage spreads as much as 2 to 3 feet at maturity. Russian sage requires plenty of air circulation to prevent the plant from rotting.

3. Trim Russian sage once or twice during the growing season. Trim only the tips of the plants or prune up to 1/3 of the height. Regular trimming encourages blooming and keeps the plant full and bushy. Prune the plant down to within 2 or 3 inches of the ground in late winter or early spring, as new growth blooms profusely.

4. Water Russian sage sparingly and only during warm, dry weather, as Russian sage is a drought-tolerant plant that will rot in soggy soil.

Tips & Warnings

• Although Russian sage is a pest-resistant plant, slugs often hide under the bushy foliage. Remove the slugs by hand or use slug bait.

References

• Colorado State University Extension: Russian Sage
• University of Illinois Extension: Some Sage Advice; Sandra Mason; 2006
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Herbaceous Perennials in Alabama; J. Raymond Kessler, et al; 2005
• Floridata: Perovskia atriplicifolia
• Washington State University Extension: Using Garden Sage Wisely