Costa Farms

 

Passionate about plants? So are we! Costa Farms is a wholesale grower that discovers, develops, and grows plants for your home and life -- indoors and out. We’re your online gardening resource for plant info and inspiration. Our articles, blogs, tips, and photos help you use plants to beautify your living spaces and enhance your life.

Learn more about Costa Farms

passionate about plants

Russian Sage

Perovskia

Russian Sage Plant Features

You can't go wrong with Russian sage. This easy-care shrub-like perennial is smothered in small lavender-colored blooms from midsummer through early fall. And even when not in bloom, Russian sage's pretty blue-green foliage is a lovely addition to any sunny border. Butterflies also enjoy feasting on the bounteous blooms of this easy-to-grow perennial flower. Russian sage is both drought and deer resistant These sturdy plants grow 2 to 4 feet tall. Hardy from zones 5-9.

Note: Botanists have reclassified this plant, so you may also see it with the botanical name Salvia yangii. 

Russian Sage Questions?
Email us and one of our perennial experts will get back to you.

Russian Sage Growing Instructions

Plant Russian sage in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Although this rugged perennial can tolerate a wide range of conditions, it does not like to sit in wet soil. In northern parts of its range, Russian sage can be a bit slow to break dormancy in the spring. Be patient before assuming the plant is dead. 

Don't let the name Russian sage fool you. This plant is not a true sage and is not recommended for human or animal consumption.

  • Light

    Outside: Sun

  • Colors

    Blue, Purple

  • Water

    Low water needs

  • Special Features

    Attracts butterflies
    Colorful foliage
    Deer/rabbit resistant
    Fragrant flowers/foliage

Complement your Russian Sage with these varieties:
Feather Reed Grass
Feather Reed Grass and Russian Sage make an amazing, low-maintenance combination.

Black-Eyed Susan
The yellow flowers of Black-eyed Susan seem to have an extra pop when planted against a clump of Russian Sage.

Sunflower, Perennial
Perennial Sunflower makes an excellent background plant for a bed of Russian Sage.

Varieties: Our Favorites

Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Taiga’ Taiga Russian Sage

Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Taiga’

A beautiful compact Russian sage, ‘Taiga’ grows just 24 to 30 inches tall and wide. It’s ideal for perennial borders and cottage gardens. Unlike its taller siblings, ‘Taiga’ Russian sage won’t get too tall and flop over in the garden. So well-behaved! Sky-blue flowers and silver foliage looks good in any border.