Russian Sage
perovskia atriplicifolia
Also known as: ["Russian Sage","Perovskia atriplicifolia"]
Overview
A deciduous subshrub with aromatic, gray-green foliage and spikes of lavender-blue flowers, native to central Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Perovskia |
| Botanical Name: | Perovskia atriplicifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or perennial bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy. Cut back to 6–8 inches above the ground to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy or less vibrant.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential for compact growth; rotate pots for even light exposure; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or grit if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9. Prefers cool nights (50–60°F) and warm days (70–85°F).
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering during heat waves.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old stems to the base; thin out crowded branches; shape as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth. Pruning also improves air circulation and flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant carefully; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Perovskia benefits from fresh soil and root pruning.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage root growth, and allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or failure to flower in insufficient light or cold stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn purple; growth slows or halts; frost can damage tender new growth.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold-induced mildew.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during prolonged heat waves.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can reduce flowering. Discontinue fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPerovskia atriplicifolia is not toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPerovskia atriplicifolia is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPerovskia atriplicifolia, commonly known as Russian Sage, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Russian Sage deer resistant?
A: Yes, Russian Sage is generally deer resistant.
Q: How often should Russian Sage be watered?
A: Russian Sage is drought tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does Russian Sage attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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