Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), also known as Salvia Blue Spire, is pruned in spring to keep it bushy and to prevent it from losing its leaves. Here is everything you need to know about pruning and caring for Russian sage.

Why prune Russian sage?

Russian sage is a semi-shrub, which means that the lower parts of the plant become woody while the upper shoots freeze back in winter. Annual pruning is important to prevent the woody shoots from growing longer and becoming bare. Also, Russian sage only flowers on annual wood, so pruning is essential for a good flowering season.

The right time to prune

The ideal time to prune Russian sage is in spring, before the plant starts to grow again. Under no circumstances should it be pruned in the autumn, as the shoots serve as winter protection.

How to prune Russian Sage correctly

1. Cut off all shoots about a hand’s breadth above the ground.
2. Shorten woody shoots to a height of about 20 centimetres.
3. Make sure the shrub retains a spherical shape.

Remove wilted flowers?

After flowering you can remove wilted flowers to encourage a second flowering. However, this is not usually worthwhile as the main flowering period begins in July and lasts into the autumn.

Propagation of Russian sage

After pruning in the spring, the cut shoots can be used for propagation:

Cuttings: Plant 10 cm long shoots with few leaves in well-drained soil and keep them moist.

Division: Dig up the plant in spring or autumn, divide and replant.

Location and soil

Salvia Blue Spire prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. It does not tolerate stagnant water. It tends to grow more prostrate than erect on nutrient-rich soils.

Caring for Russian sage

• Watering: Only water regularly during the first year of growth and only in extremely dry conditions thereafter.
• Fertilising: Not necessary as the plant can survive on very little.
• Winter hardiness: In harsh areas cover the root area with foliage to prevent frost damage.

Russian Sage in the garden

Russian sage combines well with other sun-loving plants, such as

• Catmint (Nepeta)
• Gaura (Gaura)
• Palm Lily (Yucca)
• Sage (Salvia)
• Ornamental grasses such as Feather Grass (Stipa) or Quaking Grass (Briza media)

Popular varieties of Russian sage

• Blue Spire: Dark blue flowers, up to 120cm tall
• Little Spire: Compact and bushy, about 80 cm tall
• Lacey Blue: Only 50 cm tall, ideal for smaller beds

With the right pruning and a little care, your Russian Sage will stay healthy and bloom year after year!