Perovskia 'Bluesette'
Russian sage (syn. Salvia yangii 'Bluesette')
- 9cm pot
- £9.99
- In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)
Delivery options
- Standard £5.99
- Position: full sun
- Soil: well-drained, poor to moderately fertile
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: August to September
- Hardiness: fully hardy
In August and September, tiny, violet-blue, tubular flowers appear on silver-grey spikes above the main framework of the plant, among deeply-cut and lobed, grey-green leaves. This deciduous sub-shrub makes a real impact planted en masse alongside a path, where the sage-like fragrance of its leaves can be appreciated, or try it alongside other silver-leaved plants, or in swathes in a sunny border. 'Bluesette' copes well with dry once established, chalky soil and salt-laden air.
Perovskia thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for Mediterranean-style or gravel gardens. This Russian Sage is drought-tolerant once established but overwatering or rich soil leads to weak growth and fewer flowers. Avoid pruning back in autumn as winter seed heads provide interest and food for birds. In March, prune hard to 15-30cm (6-12in) from the ground to promote bushier growth and prevent flopping, then apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) layer of well-rotted compost or manure around the base, avoiding the stems. Divide established clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate.