Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire') | Shrubs and Sub-shrubs | Plants

Russian sage

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire'

Common Name: Russian sage
Genus: Perovskia
Species: atriplicifolia
Cultivar: 'Little Spire'

Category: Shrubs and Sub-shrubs
Growth Rate: Average
Features: Has interesting foliage, Has fragrant flowers/foliage

Hardiness: Hardy	Height: 0.60 m (60 cm)
Sun/Shade: Full sun	Spread: 0.60 m (60 cm)

Foliage Type: Deciduous	Flower Colour: Blue, Purple
Foliage Colour: Green, Grey/Silver	Flowering Period: August & September

Soil Type: Sandy/Light or Chalky/Alkaline
Soil Moisture: Dry, well drained

With its aromatic silver-grey leaves and upright spikes of tiny violet-blue flowers, Russian sage makes a wonderful companion to all kinds of late-summer ornamental grasses and perennials. This is one of the smaller varieties so is the best choice if space is limited or you find the taller varieties get too floppy. This deciduous sub shrub makes a real impact planted en masse alongside a path where the sage-like fragrance of its leaves can be appreciated or try it alongside other silver-leaved plants or in swathes in a sunny border. It can also cope with dry chalky soils and coastal conditions.

Garden care: In March cut back to the permanent framework of the shrub. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.