CyberSalad: Garden Pursuits: Shrubs: Russian Sage

[CyberSalad] [Garden Pursuits] [Garden Quotes] [Garden Journal] [The Language of Flowers] [Monthly Chores]
[Garden Poetry] [Zone Maps] [First/Last Frost Dates] [Trees] [Ground Covers] [Fruit/Berries] [Water Garden]
[Gardening Links] [Vegetables] [Lawn] [Raised Beds] [Bulbs, etc.] [Shrubs] [Perennials] [Annuals] [Herbs]

Perovskia atriplicifolia

Noted for arching stems that hold sprays of lavender-blue blossoms above finely cut, aromatic, gray-green leaves, Perovskia atriplicifolia, a sub-shrub woody-based perennial of the mint family, complements red, orange and yellow flowers. 'Filagran' has silvery foliage and an upright form of growth. 'Blue Spire' bears deep, violet-blue blossoms. Compact 'Little Spire' grows only 2 feet tall. The fine texture of Russian sage is a good foil for perennials with coarse foliage, such as coneflower, stokes aster, iris and sedum. Mass plantings are effective, as the blooms have great impact. These plants withstand heat, drought, poor soil and pests exceptionally well. Good drainage, especially in winter, is important. Planting in slightly raised beds is helpful, as is mixing gravel with the soil. Avoid heavy clay soils, crowding plants and inadequate sun.

'Little Spire' is a compact Russian sage cultivar which typically grows to 2' tall (species typically grows to 3-4'). Features finely-dissected, aromatic, gray-green foliage on stiff, upright, square stems. Whorls of 2-lipped, tubular, violet-blue flowers tiered in branched, terminal panicles appear over a long summer bloom. Silvery foliage can provide good winter interest in warm winter climates.

Sign Our Guestbook

View Our Guestbook

	©2000-2007 Garden Pursuits. All Rights Reserved. WebMistress: Barbara Anders This site best viewed in 800x600 resolution. Graphics on this site are for my personal use only, and are not available for download. Please do not take.

Site launched January 1, 2000.
Site updated September 1, 2007.