Denim 'n Lace Russian Sage | Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Denim 'n Lace'

Denim and Lace Russian Sage
The 2020 Perennial Plant of the Year—a compact, no-flop Russian sage with aromatic silver-green foliage, stunning purple-blue flower spikes, and exceptional drought tolerance from mid-summer through frost.

Plant Highlights

• Type: Deciduous perennial / Upright compact habit
• Light: Full sun (6+ hours for best flowering)
• Water: Moderate during establishment; extremely drought tolerant once established
• Temperature: Zones 4–9 / Cold and heat tolerant
• Growth: 24 in tall and wide / Medium growth rate
• Pet Safe: Yes—non-toxic to dogs and cats
• Origin: Botanical name: Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Denim 'n Lace' | Proven Winners® | Award: 2020 Perennial Plant of the Year

Why You'll Love It

• Stronger stems and an upright, compact form stay tidy all season with no staking, no flopping, and no sprawl—the breakthrough that earned it Perennial of the Year
• Purple-blue flower spikes bloom continuously from mid-summer through frost (3–4 months), attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds without deadheading
• Aromatic silver-green foliage naturally deters deer and rabbits and releases a pleasant sage scent when touched

Care Tips

• In early spring before new growth emerges, cut stems back to about 6 inches above the ground to encourage vigorous new growth and maintain a neat, compact shape
• Feed lightly in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer (18-5-10); avoid over-fertilizing—this plant thrives in lean, well-drained soil
• Plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering once established; prefers dry conditions and handles prolonged drought with ease

Shipping

• Ships within 1–3 business days
• Carefully packed to protect roots and foliage in transit
• Weather holds may apply during extreme heat (95°F+) or cold (34°F and below)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I care for Denim 'n Lace Russian Sage?
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly for the first few weeks while roots establish, then water only during prolonged dry spells. In early spring, cut stems back to about 6 inches to encourage fresh, sturdy growth and a tidy shape.

Does it spread?
It forms a compact, upright clump that matures at about 24 inches tall and wide. It is not known for aggressive spreading and generally stays where it is planted. Avoid rich, heavily fertilized soil, which can encourage looser growth.

Is Russian sage a true perennial?
Yes—Denim 'n Lace returns each year in zones 4–9. It is not a culinary sage; it is Perovskia atriplicifolia with aromatic foliage and airy purple-blue flower spikes. Compared to lavender, Russian sage is often more drought tolerant once established and has a lighter, more open bloom structure.

Will it really not flop?
Correct. The stronger stems and upright form stay tidy throughout the entire season without staking—the key trait that earned it the 2020 Perennial Plant of the Year award.