Salvia yangii


Common name(s): Russian sage


Description: perennial; vigorous, upright growth with aromatic gray-green foliage and long, abundant blue-purple flower spikes from summer into fall. An easy plant for beginners as it tolerates almost any soil and climate (as well as just about any amount of neglect).


Height: to 4 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.


Position: full sun and well-draining soil


Uses: cut flowers, ornamental, to attract pollinators


Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below


Drought: adapted to 4 months of summer drought


Distribution: Afghanistan, Pakistan, Tibet, West Himalaya, China (Xinjiang)

Care: prune to 6 inches above the ground in spring to rejuvenate foliage. Cutting back spent blooms in summer will encourage more blooming but is not necessary. No fertilizer.