Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' (Russian sage) — Bushy

Overview

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' is a bushy perennial subshrub in the genus Salvia, part of the Lamiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1.5 m tall. Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, xeriscaping and pollinator gardens. It is native to Central Asia.

About

Salvia yangii, previously known as Perovskia atriplicifolia, and commonly called Russian sage, is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant and subshrub. Although not previously a member of Salvia, the genus widely known as sage, since 2017 it has been included within them.

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. One of several genera commonly referred to as sage, it includes two widely used herbs, Salvia officinalis and Salvia rosmarinus.

Wikipedia contributors, "Salvia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Salvia

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Salvia

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Full sun
UK hardiness: H7

Plant details

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial subshrub
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Height: 1.5 m
Suggested uses: borders, xeriscaping, pollinator gardens
Native to: Central Asia
Fragrance: Aromatic, sage-like

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire'

Cultivation: Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established
Pruning: Cut back hard in early spring to encourage new growth
Propagation: Softwood cuttings, division
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free
Disease resistance: Honey fungus, Powdery mildews, Verticillium wilt, Foot and root rots

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire'?

Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established.

Where is the best place to plant Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire'?

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.

What soil does Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' need?

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' 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 do I prune Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire'?

Cut back hard in early spring to encourage new growth.

How big does Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' grow?

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' reaches a height of 1.5 m.

Is Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' hardy in the UK?

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.