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“Russian Sage” Is Neither? Nyet So Fast!We reported recently that Perovskia, a.k.a. Russian sage, is neither Russian, nor a sage. Turns out we were only half right.Horticulturist and sharp-eyed reader Mark Deacon, of Cincinnati Technical & Community College, updated us. It’s still not Russian, but it has gotten smarter.The perennial formerly known as Perovskia is native to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tibet. It’s not from Russia, with or without love. But while we weren’t watching, those never-sati

That’s right, folks: Perovskia is native to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tibet. It’s not from Russia, with or without love.It’s also not a sage, despite the pungent salvia-like aroma released when the silvery foliage is crushed. It’s actually in the mint family.P. atriplicifoliaThe original! Talc-white stems rise from lacy, blue/pewter foliage, adorned with sprays of lavender flowers. Named Perennial Plant of the Year in 1995, it stands a loose-limbed 3 – 4’ and is hardy in Zones 4 – 9. P. hyb