Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Blue Steel’, commonly known as Blue Steel Russian Sage, is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial prized for its tall, airy spires of lavender-blue flowers and silvery, aromatic foliage. Blooming from midsummer to fall, this easy-care plant provides long-lasting color and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Growing 2 to 3 feet tall and wide, Blue Steel Russian Sage is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and xeriscapes. Despite its ornamental value, Russian Sage is not a native species and offers limited ecological benefits when compared to native perennials.

Why Choose Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Blue Steel’?

• Lavender-blue flowers bloom for months, attracting pollinators

• Silvery, aromatic foliage adds texture and deer resistance

• Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, perfect for hot, dry sites

Cultivating Tips

• Thrives in full sun and well-drained soils

• Tolerates drought, heat, and poor soils

• Cut back in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth

Design Ideas for Your Garden

• Ideal for sunny borders, rock gardens, and xeriscapes

• Combine with native perennials and grasses for wildlife-friendly landscapes

• Great for adding height and color to pollinator gardens

Ecological Benefits

• Attracts pollinators with its long-lasting blooms

• Non-native species offering limited habitat support for local wildlife

• Native alternatives provide better ecological value for pollinators and birds

Since Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Blue Steel’ is not a native species, here are three native alternatives available at Bumbee’s that provide ecological benefits:

• Monarda fistulosa – Wild Bergamot: Lavender blooms attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees

• Pycnanthemum tenuifolium – Narrowleaf Mountain Mint: Highly attractive to pollinators with aromatic foliage

• Eryngium yuccifolium – Rattlesnake Master: Spiky white blooms provide unique texture and support pollinators