Don't Say Nyet to Russian Sage

During the precious few moments when the hoses are not in our hands, we Southern gardeners pass the scorching days of summer comparing notes about what plants - if any - are still thriving in the sometimes triple-digit heat. My answer never changes: Russian Sage.

(Editor's Note: This article was originally published on April 26, 2008. Your comments are welcome, but please be aware that authors of previously published articles may not be able to respond to your questions.)

Voted the Perennial of the Year in 1995 by the Perennial Plant Association, Russian Sage, aka Perovskia atriplicifolia, has been providing drought-tolerant lavender beauty to American gardens for many years. It is hardy to Zone 5 (at least - probably colder), requires little care and is a non-stop bloomer.

Reports of its origin are conflicting, but most horticulturists agree that Perovskia is neither Russian nor a sage, although it is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae. Some have reported it is native to Pakistan; others say the plant originated in the dry rocky hills of Afghanistan. Whatever its background, Russian Sage should not be ignored as it is a carefree sun-loving selection for your garden.

The most important point to remember is that these plants are very herb-like, so they respond well to the same treatment your lavender or rosemary demands: sun, average (not enriched) soil, excellent drainage and very modest water. In fact, in my experience the only thing that will really rankle a Perovskia is over-watering.

Some of the bigger cultivars will flop a bit if you don't keep them lightly - emphasis on lightly - trimmed. Most woody perennials and herbs don't like being radically chopped, and Perovskia is no exception.

While several gardeners report seeing hummingbirds at their Perovskias, I myself have not witnessed this. However, you can bet your best trowel that it will attract tons of bees, though, so be mindful of where you position this plant if you have young children, curious pets, allergic family members, or all of the above.

Russian Sage also tends to "shed" its tiny blooms in a somewhat messy fashion, so don't repeat my mistake of planting it next to the swimming pool where it can hang over the water.

However, if you're just looking for something fragrant, upright, beautiful and carefree for filling a dry sunny spot or lining a driveway, here's all you need to know:

Beyond a light layer of mulch at first frost and a modest trim (down to about 6") in early spring, they are completely self-sufficient. I don't spray or fertilize them...heck, I don't even water them during the scorching depths of a Texas summer. And when you don't have to do anything at all to a plant, well, that's about as organic as it gets!

I am an avid organic gardener and former Master Gardener for Collin County, Texas. I enjoy growing nearly everything, from vegetables to herbs to tropicals. Lately I have been converting the flower beds in my Zone 8 home to all Texas natives. In my non-gardening spare time, I enjoy cooking, reading, birdwatching or hugging on either my sweet English hubby or our Golden Retriever, Monty.