Salvia 'Little Spire'


Common name(s): Russian sage


Description: perennial; a hybrid of several Salvia species that were formerly considered be in the genus Perovskia. Raised from seed and introduced by Herbert Oudshoorn of The Netherlands in 1998. Notable as a  particularly low-growing selection of Russian sage. Aromatic gray-green foliage and long, blue-violet flower spikes from summer until first frost. Adored by pollinators.


Height: to 2 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.


Position: full sun and well-draining soil


Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators


Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below


Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought

Care: prune to 6 inches above the ground in spring (after all danger of last frost) to rejuvenate foliage. Adding a 1-2 inch layer of gravel around the base increases survivability and prevents crown rot. Cutting back spent blooms in summer will encourage more blooming but is not necessary. No fertilizer.