Perovskia atriplicifolia
(Russian Sage)
Perovskia is probably called Russian Sage due to its sage-like growth, but it is not a member of the salvia family. It is also not Russian! It comes from central Asia, and was named after a Russian general , V A Perovski, by the naturalist and plant collector Karelin who discovered it in the 19th century. (Karelin apparently taught his Cossack guards to become expert at recognizing plants!)
It grows in a wild fashion, and spreads itself out, but is extremely resilient to heat, rain or strong winds. As you can see, it is exposed to the elements in my rockery, sitting on the hottest, windiest edge. It is also extremely hardy, as well as drought resistant… important in winter, when permafrost can finish off thirstier plants.
The bees adore its lavender-like spires. Can you hear them buzzing away? This is the most commonly grown hybrid “Blue Spire”, which describes it perfectly. It flowers from July through to the first frosts, when I cut it back by about two-thirds for the winter. It then gets a pruning once it starts to sprout again in spring, but would probably be just as pretty if completely neglected, as it is in some public gardens I’ve seen here!
As with sage or lavender, the foliage has that silvery tinge to it, and the stems become woody as it grows. It smells quite pungent when rubbed – not exactly unpleasant, a little like sage… Maybe that’s another reason it has been given its common name…
How wonderful the colours, the plant and the bee´s host are!
Uta
It is a very lovely plant Uta!
I love this plant but have never been able to grow it in my garden successfully.
It loves poor, well-drained soil, and a bit of neglect – maybe you took too good care of it!
I start another day once again more educated than the one before. Thanks Cathy!
Hi Verity! I love finding out interesting facts about plants… Have a good day!
I like this lavender-like plant! It looks very beautiful among your Red Valerians. Thanks for describing so detailed!
Thank you Elisabeth. Have a lovely day!
One of the best things I ever planted – it thrives on neglect!
Don’t you just love that kind of plant!
Cathy, this plant is one of my favorites but mine is poorly situated, I believe. Yours looks admirable, as does the rest of your border–all very inspiring. (great images as well!)
Thank you! It does need a bit of space, but is such an eyecatcher at this time of year.
What a lovely colour!
Yes, perfect for late summer, before the autumn flowers start blooming.
What a hero! Beautiful as well x
Wow, that is really a nice looking plant! I tried it once, but just couldn’t get it going. What a pretty garden you have.
Thanks Sandy! It is one of those plants that thrives if it’s in the right place… I’ve got two small ones in other positions, and they have not grown at all!