Russian sage is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial tailor-made for our sunny, dry climate and growing conditions.
To grow this popular perennial successfully, plant in full sun—at least 6–8 hours per day—and in well-draining soil.
Russian sage doesn’t like soggy roots, so if your soil is clay-heavy, consider planting it in a raised bed or amending your planting hole heavily with sand and compost.
Spring is the best time to plant, giving the roots a full season to establish. Space plants about 2–3 feet apart, as they can grow 3–4 feet tall and wide.
Once established, Russian sage requires very little maintenance. Water regularly during the first growing season to help the roots develop, then only occasionally during prolonged dry spells. Let soil dry out between waterings. Add mulch around base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize just as new growth begins to emerge in the Spring.
Prune hard in early spring (to about 6–12 inches from the ground) to encourage fresh, vigorous growth and keep the plant from getting woody and leggy.
Peak flowering is typically mid to late summer - especially July and August.
Russian sage doesn’t like soggy roots, so if your soil is clay-heavy, consider planting it in a raised bed or amending your planting hole heavily with sand and compost.
Spring is the best time to plant, giving the roots a full season to establish. Space plants about 2–3 feet apart, as they can grow 3–4 feet tall and wide.
Once established, Russian sage requires very little maintenance. Water regularly during the first growing season to help the roots develop, then only occasionally during prolonged dry spells. Let soil dry out between waterings. Add mulch around base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize just as new growth begins to emerge in the Spring.
Prune hard in early spring (to about 6–12 inches from the ground) to encourage fresh, vigorous growth and keep the plant from getting woody and leggy.
Peak flowering is typically mid to late summer - especially July and August.
Russian sage is deer-resistant, pollinator-friendly, and an excellent companion for other drought-loving plants like lavender and salvia—making it a standout in any Colorado garden.