Overview
Perovskia atriplicifolia is a upright, bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Perovskia, part of the Q53476 family, with grey-green, aromatic foliage. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Perovskia atriplicifolia grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, gravel gardens and coastal gardens.
About the genus
Salvia is the largest genus of plants in the sage family Lamiaceae, with just under 1,000 species of shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and annuals. Within the Lamiaceae, Salvia is part of the tribe Mentheae within the subfamily Nepetoideae.
In the garden
Perovskia atriplicifolia is a herbaceous perennial and subshrub that attains roughly 1.5 m at maturity. It suits open, sunny sites and will persist as a structural element where conditions remain bright. Although often treated as a long-lived perennial, expect it to form a steady, upright presence rather than a ground cover. Sit it in full sun and choose a soil that drains; it tolerates sandy, loamy and clay textures provided they are not waterlogged. Soil moisture should be well-drained or at most moist but well-drained—avoid sites with standing water. In the UK this plant is fully hardy (H7) and corresponds to USDA hardiness zones 5–10, which gives a clear indication of its winter tolerance and geographical range for planting decisions. Use Perovskia atriplicifolia towards the back of mixed borders or where a taller, perennial element is needed in a sunny bed. Allow space for its 1.5 m height when planning companions so lower perennials are not shaded out; positioning it as a backdrop preserves sightlines and keeps lower plants from being crowded.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Perovskia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Perovskia atriplicifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- herbaceous perennial, subshrub
- Habit
- Upright, Bushy
- Foliage
- Grey-green, Aromatic
- Height
- 1.5 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, Gravel gardens, Coastal gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Perovskia atriplicifolia
- Propagation
- Cuttings in late spring or summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Perovskia atriplicifolia?
Perovskia atriplicifolia prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Perovskia atriplicifolia need?
Perovskia atriplicifolia is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Perovskia atriplicifolia grow?
Perovskia atriplicifolia reaches a height of 1.5 m.
Is Perovskia atriplicifolia hardy in the UK?
Perovskia atriplicifolia has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Perovskia atriplicifolia?
Cuttings in late spring or summer.
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