JENNY'S GARDEN                                                             

Origin:  Native to central Asia
Family:  Lamiaceae
Light:  Full sun
Height:  2-3'
Spacing:  2-3'
Blooms:  Spires, tubular, small, blue-violet, late Spring
Foliage:  Deciduous. aromatic, silvery-gray, camphor-scented
Soil:  Well-drained, sandy, chalky, acidic, drought tolerant
Water:  Low
Uses: Xeriscaping, herb garden, container, dried flower arrangements, specimen, filler, backdrop, coastal landscaping Summer interest, Winter interest
Propagation:  Suckers, seeds, softwood tip cuttings (in Spring)

Comments:  Perovskia atriplicifolia or Russian Sage is a hardy herbaceous perennial sub-shrub with rapid clumping growth habit.  It is a native of central Asia .  In late Spring or early Summer, Perovskia atriplicifolia produces showy long-lasting spires of small tubular, blue-violet blossoms, attracting many bees.  It has attractive deciduous silvery-gray, deeply notched lobed foliage and the white stems and silvery-gray foliage emits a camphor scent when bruised or crushed.  Russian Sage is easily propagated from suckers, seeds or softwood cuttings.  It thrives best in well-drained, chalky, sandy soil in a sunny environment.  Pervoskia atriplicifolia has deep roots and soon forms a nice clump from its suckers.  It self sows and is low maintenance.  Russian Sage tolerates cold and is deer resistant.  It is excellent for xeriscaping.  Pervoskia atriplicifolia grows wonderfully in coastal gardens since it tolerates salty conditions.  Trim down to 6" in early Spring before new growth begins for a lush bloom.  The base of older stems is woody.  Mass plant Russian Sage for a gorgeous hedge.  It compliments well with ornamental grasses.  Pervoskia atriplicifolia makes a spectacular as a stand alone specimen plant.  It can also be container cultivated for the sunny deck.  The leafless branches provide Winter interest.  In its native land, Russian Sage is a medicinal plant and have been used traditionally for the treatment of diabetes and severe dysentry.  It is said to help reduce fever.  Its fresh flowers taste sweet and add colors to salads. 
Interestingly, the genus is named after Pervoskia, a 19th Century Russian general.

USDA Zones :  5-9