Russian Sage Salvia yangii (Pe)
ABOUT
Salvia yangii, commonly known as Russian Sage, is a highly ornamental plant with a distinct appearance that makes it a favorite in many gardens. The plant displays a profusion of small, bluish-purple flowers that create a mist-like effect atop its silver-gray foliage. The flowers are arranged in clusters along tall, upright stems that emerge above the foliage, lending a soft, airy texture to the landscape. The leaves of Russian Sage are finely divided and carry a delicate, lace-like look which contrasts with the boldness of the flowers. The foliage has a silvery sheen due to the presence of tiny hairs, which is especially attractive as it reflects sunlight. The overall form of the plant is bushy, with a tendency to spread out and create a substantial presence in its location. Both the leaves and the stems are aromatic when brushed against or crushed, releasing a pleasant sage-like fragrance that adds to the sensory appeal of the plant. Russian Sage typically blooms from mid-summer to fall, providing a long season of color and interest. When in bloom, it attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, adding an extra layer of dynamic activity to the garden. Despite the delicate appearance of its flowers and foliage, Russian Sage is notably hardy and can withstand tough environmental conditions once established. The plant's texture and color palette make it suitable for a range of garden designs, complementing both bold and subtle planting schemes.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Russian Sage, Perovskia.
Common names
Perovskia atriplicifolia, Perovskia abrotanoides.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as Russian Sage is not toxic to humans. It is generally considered safe, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingestion or contact with this plant. However, as with any plant, individuals may have allergies or sensitivities that could cause mild reactions, but these are not common. Ingesting any part of the Russian Sage typically does not lead to serious consequences or symptoms of poisoning in humans.
To pets
Russian Sage is also not known to be toxic to pets. It is generally safe for pets, and there are no widespread reports of poisoning in animals such as dogs and cats from ingesting this plant. However, individual animals might experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities of the plant, as is possible with ingestion of non-food items, but toxicity is not a typical concern with Russian Sage.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Purple
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Central Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought tolerance: Salvia yangii, also known as Russian sage, is highly drought-resistant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Aesthetic appeal: With its attractive silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers, Russian sage adds visual interest to the landscape from midsummer through fall.
- Pollinator attraction: It is a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which play an essential role in the ecosystem and help in pollination of other plants.
- Deer and rabbit resistance: Tends to be resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits, which can be particularly beneficial in areas where wildlife predation on plants is a concern.
- Low maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, and is not prone to many diseases or pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Herbaceous perennial: As a perennial, it will return year after year, providing long-term structure and stability in a garden design.
- Erosion control: Its extensive root system can help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion, particularly on slopes or in areas with loose soil.
- Culinary use: While not its primary benefit, some parts of the plant are edible and can be used as a flavoring in cooking.
- Companion planting: Can be used effectively in companion planting to enhance the growth of other plants and deter pests.
- Versatility in landscape design: Suitable for a variety of garden styles including borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows, and can be used as a specimen or mass planting.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Salvia yangii leaves can be used to add fragrance to laundry. Dried leaves placed in drawers or closets can impart a pleasant aroma to clothing and linens.
- The essential oil derived from the plant is occasionally used in the perfume industry for its aromatic properties.
- The plant can be used in potpourri mixes for its long-lasting scent and attractive foliage when dried.
- As a dye plant, Salvia yangii's leaves and stems may be boiled to produce a natural dye for fabrics or paper.
- Gardeners may use the plant as a natural border due to its compact growth habit and ability to deter some garden pests with its strong scent.
- Fresh or dried branches can be used as a part of floral arrangements or wreaths due to their distinctive look and fragrance.
- The silver leaves can be used as a contrasting foliage in garden landscapes, enhancing the overall aesthetic design.
- Dried Salvia yangii can be used as a fire starter for campfires or hearths because the oils within the plant can help ignite flames.
- The plant is used in some regions as a companion plant to protect vegetables from pests due to its strong aromatic properties.
- In craft projects, the textured leaves and stems can be incorporated into handmade paper, providing a unique texture and fragrance to the finished product.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Russian Sage is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Russian Sage is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Wisdom: Often associated with its genus name Salvia, which derives from the Latin for 'healing' or 'to save', Salvia yangii is commonly linked with wisdom and knowledge.
- Longevity: As a perennial plant that can survive and thrive year after year, it can symbolize endurance and the perpetual aspect of life.
- Protection: Historically, some Salvia species were believed to have protective properties, hence they can be seen as a symbol of safety and shelter.
- Healing: Due to its medicinal qualities in various cultures, Salvia yangii may also convey a sense of healing and physical or emotional recovery.
- Immortality: The enduring nature of this perennial plant, and Salvias traditionally being associated with sacred practices, leads to associations with immortality and the eternal.
WaterRussian Sage should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage its roots to grow deeper into the soil, establishing a better tolerance to drought. Typically, watering once every one to two weeks will suffice, with about 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant per watering session, depending on the climate and soil conditions. During hot and dry periods, monitor the plant more closely and increase watering slightly, but always allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot. In cooler seasons or when rainfall is abundant, reduce watering to prevent over-saturating the soil.
LightThe Russian Sage thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day. An ideal spot for this plant would be in an area that isn’t shaded by trees or buildings, such as an open landscape or a south-facing garden, where it can benefit from the intense light.
TemperatureRussian Sage is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it performs best in areas where the average temperature is between 60°F and 70°F. The plant can survive temperatures down to approximately -20°F and up to highs of 90°F without significant distress. However, it is essential to protect it from extreme cold by mulching around the base in winter.
PruningPruning Russian Sage encourages healthier growth and fuller blooming. Prune back the plant in early spring, cutting it down to about 12 to 18 inches above the ground to promote new growth. You can also deadhead spent flowers during the blooming season to stimulate further flowering. It's not necessary to prune Russian Sage more than once a year, as it benefits from being allowed to grow naturally.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRussian Sage prefers well-draining soil with a mix of sand, loam, and a bit of compost to enrich it. The ideal soil pH should be slightly alkaline, between 6.5 to 8.0. Aeration is key, so incorporating perlite or vermiculite can help maintain the structure and drainage needed.
RepottingRussian Sage typically does not require frequent repotting and can thrive when root-bound to a certain extent. Repotting every 2 to 3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingRussian Sage thrives in low to moderate humidity conditions and does not require high humidity. It is quite drought-tolerant and can cope well with the average humidity found in most temperate regions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Russian Sage near a sunny window and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil and space for air flow.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleSalvia yangii, commonly known as Russian Sage, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which typically occurs in late spring when the soil temperatures warm up. Emerging as seedlings, they gradually develop a robust root system and foliage during the initial growth stage. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage where it experiences rapid growth and produces its characteristic silvery-green leaves and sturdy stems. Flowering occurs in the summer to early fall, with the plant showcasing numerous small, lavender or blue flowers that attract various pollinators. After blooming, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind or wildlife, allowing for the potential colonization of new areas. Finally, as the colder months approach, Russian Sage enters a period of dormancy, with above-ground parts dying back and underground parts surviving until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Russian Sage (Salvia yangii) is by taking softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer when the plant's new growth is just hardening but still pliable. To do this, select a healthy, non-flowering stem and make a cut to obtain a section that is 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters) long. Strip away the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Plant the cutting into a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least two sets of leaf nodes are buried where they can form roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and within a few weeks, the cutting should root and eventually grow into a new Russian Sage plant.
