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

Perovskia atriplicifolia is a herbaceous perennial and subshrub that typically reaches about 1.5 m. It prefers full sun and establishes best in well-drained or moist but well-drained soils across sandy, loamy or clay textures. Fully hardy in the UK (H7) and suitable for USDA zones 5–10, it holds a lasting place in sunny borders. Plant with allowance for its mature height so it does not crowd neighbours.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia yangii

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