What Are the Different Types of Russian Sage Plant

Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a popular perennial plant known for its beautiful silver-gray foliage and stunning blue-purple flowers. It is native to Central Asia and has become a favorite among gardeners for its ability to thrive in hot and dry conditions. Russian sage is a versatile plant that can be used in various landscaping situations, and there are several different types available for gardening enthusiasts to choose from. In this article, we will explore some of the different types of Russian sage plants and their unique characteristics.

1. ‘Blue Spire’ Russian Sage

‘Blue Spire’ is one of the most common and widely available varieties of Russian sage. It features tall, upright stems that can reach a height of 3-4 feet, creating an impressive vertical element in the garden. The foliage is silvery-gray and highly aromatic when crushed, emitting a pleasant scent. The flowers are a vibrant shade of blue-purple and appear in dense spikes from mid-summer to early fall. ‘Blue Spire’ is a drought-tolerant variety that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

2. ‘Little Spire’ Russian Sage

If you have limited space or prefer a more compact version of Russian sage, ‘Little Spire’ is an excellent choice. This dwarf variety only grows to a height of 2-3 feet, making it perfect for small gardens or containers. Despite its smaller size, ‘Little Spire’ still retains the classic features of Russian sage, including silver-gray foliage and blue-purple flowers. It is also just as drought-tolerant as its larger counterparts and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

3. ‘Longin’ Russian Sage

‘Longin’ is a unique cultivar of Russian sage that stands out with its distinctive pink flowers. Unlike the traditional blue-purple blooms of other varieties, ‘Longin’ produces long spikes of delicate pink flowers that add a touch of softness to the garden. The foliage is the same silvery-gray color as other Russian sage plants, creating a beautiful contrast against the pink flowers. ‘Longin’ grows to a height of 2-3 feet and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

4. ‘Blue Jean Baby’ Russian Sage

‘Blue Jean Baby’ is a relatively new variety of Russian sage that has gained popularity for its compact growth habit and abundant flowers. This cultivar forms a dense mound of silver-gray foliage that reaches a height of 2-3 feet. Its flowers are a deep shade of blue-purple, creating a striking display in the garden. ‘Blue Jean Baby’ is known for its long blooming period, extending from mid-summer to early fall. Like other Russian sage plants, it is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun.

5. ‘Filigran’ Russian Sage

‘Filigran’ is a unique variety of Russian sage that stands out with its finely dissected foliage. Unlike the typical silvery-gray leaves of other varieties, ‘Filigran’ has delicate, fern-like foliage that adds an interesting texture to the garden. The flowers are a beautiful shade of blue-purple and appear in dense spikes from mid-summer to early fall. ‘Filigran’ grows to a height of 2-3 feet and performs best in full sun and well-drained soil.

6. ‘Denim ‘n Lace’ Russian Sage

‘Denim ‘n Lace’ is another compact variety of Russian sage that offers a more refined appearance. Its foliage is a slightly darker shade of gray than other cultivars, giving it a unique look. The flowers are a vibrant blue-purple and cover the plant from mid-summer to early fall. ‘Denim ‘n Lace’ grows to a height of 2-3 feet and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. This variety is also known for its excellent resistance to powdery mildew, a common problem in Russian sage plants.

In conclusion, Russian sage is a versatile and beautiful perennial plant that comes in various types and cultivars. Whether you prefer the classic ‘Blue Spire,’ the compact ‘Little Spire,’ or the unique ‘Longin’ with its pink flowers, there is a Russian sage variety to suit every garden. From the finely dissected foliage of ‘Filigran’ to the dark gray leaves of ‘Denim ‘n Lace,’ each type of Russian sage adds its own charm and visual interest to the landscape. Whichever variety you choose, Russian sage is sure to bring elegance and beauty to your garden while thriving in hot and dry conditions.