perennial

Russian Sage

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Bluesette'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

16 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Perovskia atriplicifolia, commonly known as Russian sage, is a woody-based perennial or sub-shrub featuring finely-dissected, aromatic, gray-green to silvery foliage on stiff, square stems. It produces long terminal panicles of small, tubular, two-lipped, violet-blue flowers from mid-summer into fall. 'Bluesette' is a particularly compact cultivar, significantly shorter than the species, making it suitable for smaller gardens, containers, and the front of borders. It is also noted for blooming earlier in the season than many other Russian sage varieties.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Creates a stunning silvery-gray backdrop with vibrant purple flowers, perfect for sunny borders.

Drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.

Attracts beneficial insects, supporting garden biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into well-draining soil in spring.
Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks.
Place in full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
Fertilize with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring.
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape and promote new growth.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; avoid overwatering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly once established 💧
Prune in early spring to maintain shape ✂️
Fertilize lightly in spring for vibrant blooms 🌱

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization which can reduce flowering ❌
Don’t prune in late fall, wait until after blooming ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant hedgeSunlit rock garden

Companion Plants

Sedum Lavender Echinacea Agastache Yarrow

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Russian Sage questions

What zones can Russian Sage grow in?

Russian Sage is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Russian Sage deer resistant?

Yes — Russian Sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Russian Sage bloom?

Russian Sage typically blooms in mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Russian Sage need full sun?

Russian Sage does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Russian Sage drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Russian Sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.