Perovskia 'Crazy Blue' - Russian Sage
Perovskia 'Crazy Blue' is a compact selection of Russian sage with finely textured silver foliage and abundant lavender blue flower spikes that bloom from midsummer into fall. Its airy habit and long flowering season bring soft color and movement to sunny plantings while maintaining a tough, drought tolerant nature.
Height & Spread: 24 - 30 in x 18 - 24 in
Bloom Time: Midsummer to fall
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Preference: Dry to average well drained soil
Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from Perovskia atriplicifolia, a species native to central Asia. It is not native to North America but is widely used in ornamental plantings for its resilience and extended bloom period.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Hummingbirds
- Attracts hummingbirds which visit the abundant flower spikes for nectar throughout the bloom season.
Butterflies
- Draws in butterflies including Swallowtails and Painted Ladies seeking nectar during midsummer and fall.
Bees
- Highly attractive to native bees, bumblebees, and honeybees which forage continuously across its long bloom period.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 18 - 24 in apart to allow plants to form a full airy mound without crowding.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and dry landscapes where its silvery foliage and long blooming color provide contrast and movement.
Companion Plants
- Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' (Purple Coneflower) - Adds upright structure and strong midsummer color alongside the airy blooms.
- Panicum virgatum 'Shenandoah' (Switchgrass) - Provides vertical interest and seasonal foliage color that complements the soft blue tones.
- Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' (Meadow Sage) - Reinforces cool toned color while offering earlier bloom contrast.
- Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Brings bold yellow flowers that contrast with the lavender blue spikes.
- Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote' (English Lavender) - Echoes the drought tolerant habit and complements both color and texture.