Russian Sage is the quintessential drought-tolerant perennial, filling the midsummer garden with an airy, shimmering haze of lavender-blue flowers that float above aromatic silver-gray foliage like a lavender field in Provence. Growing 3–5 feet tall, its silvery-white stems and finely cut, aromatic gray-green leaves provide textural interest from spring through fall, while the long panicles of tiny lavender-blue blooms attract an abundance of bees and butterflies from midsummer until frost. Few perennials are more adaptable, beautiful, or easier to grow. Airy lavender-blue flower panicles from midsummer to frost, a cloud of color Aromatic silvery foliage provides beautiful texture and fragrance all season Extremely drought tolerant, thrives in poor, dry, rocky, sandy soils Irresistible to bees, butterflies, and beneficial pollinators Deer and rabbit resistant Stunning with ornamental grasses, salvias, and echinacea Hardy in Zones 5–8 Russian Sage thrives in full sun with well-drained to dry soil, it is one of the most drought-tolerant perennials available and actually performs better in lean, dry conditions than in rich, moist soil. Cut back to 12–18 inches in late winter or early spring to encourage fresh, vigorous new growth and maximum flowering. Avoid overwatering and heavy, clay soils, which can cause root rot. Once established, it is virtually indestructible. Plant in mass for a breathtaking lavender-blue sea of color, or use as a graceful filler throughout the border. Shop now!
