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Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel' (Russian sage)
Image courtesy of PanAmerican Seed

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Technical sheet - Perovskia

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel'

Russian sage

(syn. Salvia yangii)

A seed cultivar with upright silver stems covered in a mist of lavender-blue flowers. The perfect plant to intermingle textures in flower borders, it is tough as steel and adds cool color through the late summer. A favorite of butterflies and bumblebees, avoided by deer, and able to withstand the baking and sweltering temperatures of summerwhat’s not to like?

SIZE
Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel' - 72 per flat Availability
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Height

28-34 Inches

Spread

36 Inches

Spacing

18-24 Inches

Bloom Color

Violet

USDA Hardiness Zone 4-9

Russian sage Interesting Notes

Perovskia atriplicifolia, commonly called Russian sage, is a woody-based perennial of the mint family which typically grows 2-4' (less frequently to 5') tall and features finely-dissected, aromatic (when crushed), gray-green leaves on stiff, upright, square stems and whorls of two-lipped, tubular, light blue flowers tiered in branched, terminal panicles (12-15" high). -Missouri Botanical Garden

Tough as steel! A new seed introduction by PanAm Seed with a sturdy, controlled habit in the landscape. 'Blue Steel' combines the best summer-blooming lavender-blue colour with outstanding late-season garden performance and has aromatic, silvery foliage carrying clouds of small blue flowers on strong silver stems that do not break or split easily. It is very hardy and Heat/drought tolerant. - PanAm Seed

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel' Growing and Maintenance Tips

Performs best in full sun and in well-draining soils. Can tolerate hot, dry climates. Perovskia has few pests and disease issues and rarely needs pruning. If pruning is necessary, do so in early spring when new growth appears. 

Good Substitutions

Russian sage Perovskia 'Little Spire'

Key Characteristics & Attributes

Full Sun
Full Sun
Part Sun
Part Sun
Pollinator-friendly
Pollinator-friendly
Deer Resistant
Deer Resistant
Drought Tolerant
Drought Tolerant
Fragrant
Fragrant
Cut Flower
Cut Flower
Summer
Summer

Additional Information

Soil Moisture Needs
Average
Dry
Green Infrastructure
Green Roof
Plug Type
Horticultural Plug
Attributes
Ornamental Foliage
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Late Summer
Propagation Type
Seed cultivar