Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire (PBR)'
Russian sage
- Position: full sun
- Soil: well-drained, poor to moderately fertile
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: August and September
- Hardiness: fully hardy
With its aromatic, silver-grey leaves and upright spikes of tiny, violet-blue flowers, Russian sage makes a wonderful companion to all kinds of late-summer ornamental grasses and perennials. This is one of the smaller varieties, so is the best choice if space is limited or you find the taller varieties get too floppy. This deciduous sub shrub makes a real impact planted en masse alongside a path, where the sage-like fragrance of its leaves can be appreciated, or try it alongside other silver-leaved plants, or in swathes in a sunny border. It can also cope with dry, chalky soils and coastal conditions. - Garden care: In March cut back to the permanent framework of the shrub. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.
Eryngium giganteum 'Silver Ghost'
giant sea holly
Stunning silvery white bracts
Geranium macrorrhizum 'Bevan's Variety'
Balkan cranesbill
Magenta flowers. Perfect for suppressing weeds
Echinacea purpurea 'Vintage Wine' (PBR)
coneflower
Cheerful, deep pink flowers
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