Description
Growth & Care
| USDA Plant Hardiness Zone | 3b |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Recommended Pruning Method | Late Winter Pruning |
Foliage
| Foliage Type | Deciduous |
| Plant Form | Upright Spreading |
Flowers
| Flower Period | Summer, Fall |
| Flower Color | Purple |
| Flower Fragrance | Unscented |
| Suitable for Cut Flower Arrangements | Yes |
Additional Categories
| Additional Category | Russian Sage |
| Landscape Application | Massing, Garden, Naturalizing |
Details
Planting & Growing
Russian Sage will grow to be about 3 feet tall at maturity extending to 4 feet tall with the flowers, with a spread of 3 feet. When grown in masses or used as a bedding plant, individual plants should be spaced approximately 30 inches apart. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 10 years. As an herbaceous perennial, this plant will usually die back to the crown each winter, and will regrow from the base each spring. Be careful not to disturb the crown in late winter when it may not be readily seen!
This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for a low-water garden or xeriscape application. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for alkaline soils. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.
Landscape Attributes
Russian Sage is an herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. It brings an extremely fine and delicate texture to the garden composition and should be used to full effect.
This is a relatively low maintenance plant, and is best cut back to the ground in late winter before active growth resumes. It is a good choice for attracting butterflies to your yard, but is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics.
Russian Sage is recommended for the following landscape applications:
Mass Planting, General Garden Use, Naturalizing And Woodland Gardens
Ornamental Features
Russian Sage features delicate spikes of lavender flowers rising above the foliage from early summer to mid fall. The flowers are excellent for cutting. Its attractive fragrant narrow leaves emerge silver in spring, turning grayish green in color throughout the season.
