Perovskia atriplicifolia

Common Name:
Russian Sage

Description:
Perovskia atriplicifolia, commonly known as Russian Sage, is a striking, drought-tolerant perennial shrub admired for its airy sprays of lavender-blue flowers and aromatic, silvery-grey foliage. This hardy plant creates a soft, cloud-like effect in the landscape, with tall, slender stems that sway beautifully in the breeze. Flowering from late spring through summer and often into early autumn in Melbourne’s climate, it provides long-lasting colour and valuable nectar for pollinators. The finely divided foliage releases a pleasant fragrance when brushed against, adding sensory appeal to garden beds and borders. Russian Sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, performing exceptionally well in poor or sandy soils once established. It is highly tolerant of heat, dry conditions, and coastal exposure, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens, contemporary landscapes, and mass plantings where a soft, silvery contrast is desired. Prune back hard in late winter to encourage vigorous new growth and abundant flowering.

Form:
*Shrub - Medium
*Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:
Height: 1–1.5 m
Width: 1–1.2 m

Aspect:
*Full Sun

Flowering:
*Flowers in Spring
*Flowers in Summer
*Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:
Lavender-blue

Key Attributes:
*Suitable for Pots
*Disease Resistant
*Bee Attracting
*Bird Attracting
*Herbaceous
*Perennial
*Drought Tolerant
*Low Maintenance
*Coastal Tolerant

Toxicity:
Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.

Companion Plants:
Salvia
Lavandula
Echinacea
Gaura
Stipa tenuissima
Sedum