Russian Sage Plant Care
Perovskia atriplicifolia Benth.
Salvia yangii, previously known as Perovskia atriplicifolia, and commonly called Russian sage, is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant and subshrub. Although not previously a member of Salvia, the genus widely known as sage, since 2017 it has been included within them.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun
60–80°F
30–60%
What Is the Russian Sage?
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) belongs to the Lamiaceae family within the Perovskia genus. Russian Sage is also known as Sage, Blue Mist Spirea.
Russian Sage displays an upright, woody shrub growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Russian Sage produces spikes of small, lavender-blue flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Russian Sage?
Perovskia atriplicifolia requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Russian Sage Need?
Russian Sage thrives in full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–3000 lux. Avoid placing Russian Sage in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun
2000–3000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Russian Sage Prefer?
Perovskia atriplicifolia grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Russian Sage prefers humidity levels of 30–60%.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
30–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Russian Sage?
Well-draining sandy loam with added perlite for improved drainage. Good drainage is essential for Russian Sage to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Russian Sage?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Russian Sage?
Russian Sage can be propagated through softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Russian Sage Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Russian Sage?
Russian Sage is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Russian Sage Need?
Russian Sage grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. In cooler regions, grow Russian Sage as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13a
Keep exploring plants
Russian Sage is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Perovskia genus — compare its care with other Perovskia species on PlantoScan.
Russian Sage thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
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