perennial

Little Spire Russian Sage

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire'

$11.99

The Story

Plant Bio

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire' is a compact shrub known for its aromatic, silvery foliage and spikes of small, tubular blue flowers.

This cultivar is prized for its shorter stature compared to other Perovskia species, making it ideal for smaller gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesPerovskia 'Little Spire' offers silvery foliage and tall, purple flower spikes that attract pollinators, adding texture and color to gardens.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance makes it ideal for water-wise landscapes, reducing maintenance and irrigation needs.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for bees and butterflies, supporting local pollinator populations.
SpeciesPerovskia atriplicifoliaRussian Sage

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Central Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

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In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

<1 Gal PotBarerootTrays
In Stock$11.99
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1+ Gal Pot
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Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
  2. Tuck seeds or cuttings into soil, keeping 1/4 inch deep, and water gently.
  3. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during root development.
  4. Transplant seedlings when they are sturdy and have established roots, usually after 6 weeks.
  5. Apply a light layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for optimal growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for best blooms
  • Mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall or winter, as it may damage the plant
  • Refrain from using heavy fertilization that can lead to leggy growth
  • Never plant in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant perennial bedFragrant shrub for xeriscaping

Companion Plants

Lavender Russian Sage SedumYarrow Coreopsis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Little Spire Russian Sage questions

What zones can Little Spire Russian Sage grow in?

Little Spire 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 Little Spire Russian Sage deer resistant?

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

When does Little Spire Russian Sage bloom?

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

Does Little Spire Russian Sage need full sun?

Little Spire Russian Sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Little Spire Russian Sage drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Little Spire Russian Sage with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.