What To Plant With Russian Sage
Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a stunning perennial plant that is native to Central Asia. Its long, lavender-blue flowers and silvery-grey foliage make it a must-have for any garden. But, if you're wondering what to plant with russian sage, then you're in luck! In this post, we'll discuss some of the best plant combinations to really make your garden stand out.
Pain Points of Planting with Russian Sage
While russian sage is a beautiful plant on its own, many gardeners struggle with finding the right plants to pair it with. Some complain that russian sage can be too overpowering, while others find it difficult to balance its unique color with other plants.
Answering the Target of What to Plant with Russian Sage
The key to successfully planting with russian sage is to choose plants that complement its unique qualities without taking away from them. Here are some of the best plant combinations to try:
1. Sedum 'Autumn Joy'
This hardy, low-maintenance plant pairs perfectly with russian sage. The pinkish flowers of the sedum really pop against the soft, lavender-blue of russian sage.
2. Rudbeckia 'Goldsturm'
The bright, yellow blooms of rudbeckia add a cheery touch to any garden. Pair it with russian sage for a delightful contrast of color and texture.
3. Salvia Caradonna
The deep purple-blue flowers of this salvia really complement the soft blue-lavender of russian sage. Not only do the two plants look great together, but they also share similar growing conditions, making them an easy combo to care for.
4. Echinacea 'White Swan'
If you're looking for a more muted color combination, try pairing russian sage with white coneflower. The delicate white flowers of 'White Swan' create a lovely contrast against the greyish-green foliage of russian sage.
My Personal Experience with Planting Russian Sage
When I first planted russian sage in my garden, I wasn't sure what to pair it with. I quickly discovered that a combination of russian sage and rudbeckia was a winning pairing. The bright yellow of the rudbeckia really made the lavender-blue of the russian sage pop. I also loved how low maintenance both plants were - they practically took care of themselves!
Planting Tips for Russian Sage
If you're considering planting russian sage in your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, russian sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. They are also drought-tolerant once established, making them a great option for water-wise gardens. Finally, be sure to give them space to grow - russian sage can get quite large (up to five feet tall and four feet wide).
Where to Plant Russian Sage
Russian sage is a very versatile plant that can grow in a variety of garden settings. You can plant it in a border, as a hedge, or as a mass planting for a dramatic effect. It also looks great when planted with other perennials or ornamental grasses.
Best Soil for Russian Sage
Russian sage prefers well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline pH. If your soil is too heavy or clay-like, try amending it with some sand or organic matter to improve drainage.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I transplant russian sage?
A: Yes! Russian sage is relatively easy to transplant. Just be sure to do it in the fall, after the plant has bloomed. Dig up the plant carefully, keeping as much soil around the roots as possible, and replant it in a new location.
Q: Do I need to prune russian sage?
A: Yes. Pruning russian sage is important to keep it looking its best. In the early spring, cut back the previous year's growth to about six inches from the ground. This will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from getting too leggy.
Q: Will russian sage attract bees?
A: Yes! Russian sage is a favorite of bees and other pollinators. If you're trying to attract pollinators to your garden, russian sage is a great choice.
Q: Is russian sage deer-resistant?
A: Yes. Russian sage is deer-resistant, which makes it a great choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
Conclusion
Planting with russian sage may seem intimidating, but with the right plant combinations, it can be a real show-stopper in your garden. Consider pairing it with sedum, rudbeckia, salvia, or coneflower for a stunning contrast in color and texture. And don't forget to give your russian sage plenty of room to grow - it's a plant that likes to spread out!
Gallery
Russian Sage-RUSSGE - The Home Depot
Photo Credit by: bing.com / sage russian blue lacey depot herb plants perennials
Russian Sage Is An Ornamental Perennial That Has Strong, Upright Stems
Photo Credit by: bing.com / perennial ornamental stems upright leaves
How To Cut Back Russian Sage | Colorado Yard Care
Photo Credit by: bing.com /
How To Plant, Grow And Care For Russian Sage | HGTV
Photo Credit by: bing.com / sage russian lace plants denim dry hgtv care perennial pruning flowers plant planting perovskia tolerant soil drought perennials atriplicifolia landscaping
Russian Sage In 2021 | Flowers Perennials, Russian Sage, Monrovia Plants
Photo Credit by: bing.com / monrovia perennials