Accession Count: 0
Common Name:
Russian sage
Family Name:
Lamiaceae
Botanical Name:
Perovskia atriplicifolia
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
Perovskia atriplicifolia is a small to medium size shrubby perennial typically found in xeric landscapes. This plant spreads by rhizomes, and has a clumpy growth habit (1). The plant grows to a height of three to five feet and spreads about two to four feet in width. The foliage is silver to gray in color and has a powerful aroma, which is common for plants of the Lamiaceae (mint) family (2). The plant produces multiple flower spikes with flowers ranging from blue to lavender in color and blooms from July to October.
Compound:
Per atr
Geographic Origin:
Southwestern Asia, Central Asia
Ecozone Origin:
Palearctic
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
P. atriplicifolia is native to Central Asia, and is spread from Afghanistan to Eastern China. The common name ‘russian sage’ implies it is of Russian origin, but the genus name is named after a Russian general, V.A. Perovski, rather than the geographic area (3).
Cultivation Notes:
P. atriplicifolia is grown from seed as well as softwood cuttings. This plant is well suited for xeriscape landscapes, as it does not require much water, and contrasts well with other desert adapted plants. Full sun is needed to ensure the full growth and spread of this plant, which can vary due to its ability to produce rhizomes. Every few years the plant can be pruned back to encourage a more natural appearance (1).
Ethnobotany:
The flowers of P. atriplicifolia have been eaten by the people indigenous to Central Asia, and are said to have a sweet flavor. The plant also has many medicinal uses. The tender shoots and flowers can be dried and soaked in water to lower sugar levels in diabetics. The same concoction is also given lessen the symptoms of patients with chronic dysentery (4). This shrub is also used as an aromatic due to its strong scent (5).
The flowers of P. atriplicifolia are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Height:
0 - 5 feet
Width:
0 - 5 feet
Growth Rate:
Moderate Growing
Grow Season:
Spring
Flower Season:
Summer
Color:
Blue
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Low water Use
