Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' – A Striking, Aromatic Shrub with Beautiful Blue Spikes
Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire', commonly known as Russian Sage, is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial that brings dramatic color and texture to the garden with its tall, airy spires of blue-purple flowers. Reaching a height of 120 cm, this bushy shrub is ideal for adding vertical interest to borders, flower beds, or as a specimen plant in a sunny garden.
The soft, aromatic foliage of 'Blue Spire' has a silvery-gray hue that beautifully contrasts with the vibrant blue flower spikes that appear in mid to late summer and continue into fall. These spires of delicate, tubular flowers attract bees and butterflies, adding both color and wildlife value to your landscape. Perovskia 'Blue Spire' thrives in well-drained, dry soils and is incredibly low-maintenance once established, making it a perfect choice for gardeners seeking a hardy, eye-catching shrub.
Why Grow Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire'?
Vibrant Blue Flowers – The tall, spiky flower clusters bloom in mid to late summer, adding a striking blue-purple hue that provides a beautiful contrast to other plants in the garden.
Aromatic Foliage – The silvery-gray leaves emit a pleasant fragrance when touched, creating a sensory experience that complements the plant's visual appeal.
Drought-Tolerant & Low Maintenance – Once established, 'Blue Spire' is extremely drought-tolerant, requiring minimal care and maintenance, making it an ideal choice for low-water or xeriscape gardens.
Attracts Pollinators – The blue flowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a great addition to any wildlife-friendly garden.
Hardy & Resilient – Perovskia 'Blue Spire' is a hardy, disease-resistant plant that thrives in a variety of soil types, making it a versatile and long-lasting choice for gardens.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Perovskia 'Blue Spire' thrives in full sun. It performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, which ensures the most abundant flower display and healthy growth.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, dry to medium soil that is slightly alkaline to neutral. It is tolerant of poor, rocky soils, making it a great choice for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
Watering: Water regularly when newly planted to establish strong roots. Once established, 'Blue Spire' is highly drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal water, making it a great option for water-wise gardens.
Maintenance:
Pruning – In early spring, prune back dead stems to ground level to encourage fresh new growth. This will help maintain a tidy appearance and promote more vigorous flowering. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Mulching can help retain moisture and prevent weeds, but be careful not to mound mulch around the base of the plant. A light mulch layer in early spring can help protect the roots during colder months.
Fertilizing is generally not required, as 'Blue Spire' thrives in poor soils. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring can support robust growth and flowering if desired.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Blue Spire' pairs beautifully with other drought-tolerant, sun-loving plants such as Echinacea, Rudbeckia, and Salvia, where its tall blue spires create an elegant backdrop to lower-growing flowers. It also looks stunning with ornamental grasses like Calamagrostis or Pennisetum, where the fine-textured leaves and tall flower spikes create an airy, softening effect. For a more rustic look, pair it with shrubs like Lavender or Spiraea to create a harmonious and textured border.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
