Blue Steel Russian Sage

Blue Steel Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel')

Blue Steel Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel') is a robust, upright perennial known for its silvery-green foliage and striking blue flower spikes. This drought-tolerant variety adds vibrant color and texture, creating a bold focal point in sunny, dry landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Blue Steel produces dense, upright spikes of vibrant blue flowers that emerge in midsummer and continue into fall. The aromatic, finely dissected silver-green foliage offers a striking contrast to the vivid blooms. Its sturdy, upright stems provide excellent structure, ensuring the plant maintains its form throughout the season. This variety is highly attractive to pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and its drought-tolerant nature makes it perfect for water-wise gardens.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soil; tolerates poor soil conditions.
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established; water moderately during prolonged dry spells.
• Humidity: Tolerates heat and humidity but thrives in dry conditions.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9, adaptable to a variety of climates.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point Planting: Bold color and structure create a striking centerpiece in dry gardens.
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
• Mixed Borders: Adds height, texture, and movement to perennial beds.
• Dry Gardens: Perfect for xeriscapes and low-water landscapes.
• Foundation Plantings: Provides contrast with silvery foliage and bold blue blooms.

Low Maintenance Care

Blue Steel is an easy-care, low-maintenance perennial that thrives with minimal attention.

• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently once established.
• Pruning: Cut back hard in early spring to promote healthy growth and maintain shape.
• Fertilizing: Rarely needs feeding; avoid rich soils to prevent flopping.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Resistant to most pests and diseases.
• Winter Care: Mulch in colder climates to protect roots.

Why Choose Blue Steel Russian Sage?

Blue Steel Russian Sage offers bold color, strong structure, and pollinator-friendly blooms for resilient landscapes.

• Vibrant Blue Blooms: Creates a striking, long-lasting display from summer into fall.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care and water.
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
• Focal Point Appeal: Ideal for creating bold statements in dry, sunny gardens.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistant: Excellent for wildlife-prone areas.

For a bold and resilient plant that enhances dry gardens with vibrant color and structure, Blue Steel Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Steel') is an excellent focal point choice.