Perovskia atriplicifolia

Russian sage, Perovskia atriplicifolia, is a handsome sub-shrub that reaches its peak performance towards the end of summer and into early autumn, when it produces masses of lavender-coloured flowers held on branching, aromatic stems.

Perovskia atriplicifolia is a fantastic addition to a herbaceous border or gravel garden, growing alongside plants like eryngiums, rudbeckias and echinaceas. The flowers are a magnet for pollinating insects.

For best results, grow Perovskia atriplicifolia in full sun in well-drained soil. Prune hard each year in mid- to late spring create a woody framework a few inches high – this encourages strong new growth that will carry flowers later in the year.