Russian Sage

Scientific Name: Salvia yangii

Category: plant

Russian Sage

Brief Description

A popular perennial subshrub known for its silvery-grey foliage and tall, airy spikes of tiny blue-purple flowers.

Characteristics

Stiff, upright stems with grey-green to silvery leaves that are deeply dissected and aromatic when crushed. Flowers form in long, branching panicles of lavender to violet-blue blooms from mid-summer to autumn.

Habitat

Thrives in full sun and well-draining soils; commonly planted in garden borders, landscapes, and along roadsides, native to central and southwestern Asia.

When to Find It

Blooms from mid-summer through late autumn.

Conservation Status

N/A

Ecological Role

Provides an excellent nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Easily Confused With

Perovskia 'Little Spire' is a more compact cultivar, and true sages (Salvia species) have broader leaves and different growth habits.

Observation Tips

Best observed in full sun during mid-day when pollinators are most active.

Interesting Facts

Despite its common name, Russian Sage is not native to Russia; it was named after a Russian general. It is also remarkably drought-tolerant and deer-resistant.