Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Average to dry moisture levels are ideal, and few pests bother this plant. Russian sage is native to Afghanistan and Pakistan where it grows in gravelly or rocky sites.

Older stems are woody at the base, and younger stems are herbaceous and square in cross section. Flower stems sometimes falls over, especially if not situated in full sun. It will survive in partial shade but it will become leggy and probably need staking. If needed, plants can be pruned almost to the ground. Cut back to just above the lowest bud in early spring, before new growth, as best flowering occurs on new foliage.

Attributes: Border plants, Cut flower or foliage, Dried flower or seed heads, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant (when crushed or bruised), Mass Planting, Salt Tolerant, Specimen or focal point. Attracts hummingbirds and Deer resistant. Russian Sage's best use may be mass plantings in the middle or rear of a flower garden to create a strong vertical background for large flowers or bold foliage.