• Not a true sage: Russian sage is actually a member of the mint family, but it gets its name from the sage-like smell its leaves give off when crushed. • Genus name: The genus name, Perovskia, honors Russian general V. A. Perovski from the 1800s. Edible: The blooms of Russian sage can be used as a sweet and edible garnish. • Long-lived: Russian sage plants can live for a long time, but they may need to be divided and replanted every four to six years to prevent them from becoming overgrown. • Attracts pollinators: Russian sage is popular with bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. • Versatile: Russian sage can be used in many ways in a garden, including as ground cover, a specimen plant, or a perennial border. |