No, these beautiful flowers that you see in this photo are not lavender. This plant is called Perovskia Atriplicifolia, commonly known as Russian Sage and occasionally Lavender of Afghanistan. Not only is its second name the same as our favorite flower, these two plants are part of the same family and look alike.
Sage is another herb that thrives in conditions that lavender favors. No matter the variety, sage will thrive in hot climates, sandy, well-draining soil with little water or fuss. Sage grows best in Zones 5-11. Thyme, sage, and lavender make a great group for planting together, especially in pots or containers.
Is lavender in the sage family?
The Lamiaceae, or mint family, is the seventh largest among flowering plant families and encompasses about 7,000 species. In addition to lavender and the mints, the group includes most of the culinary herbs like basil, oregano, sage, thyme and rosemary, as well as plants as diverse as timber trees such as teak.
Can you plant Russian sage and lavender together?
Russian sage attracts butterflies and bees and is dramatic as an unsung cut flower. Combines perfectly with other low water plants like lavender, sedum, and ornamental grasses, even pairs nicely with bold leafed succulents like large agaves and aloes.
Is sage and lavender the same thing? – Related Questions
What should you not grow with sage?
For the healthiest garden, keep sage away from:
Cucumbers: Sage and other aromatic herbs can stunt cucumbers’ growth (oregano is the exception).
Alliums: Onions, leeks, garlic, shallots, and chives prefer moist soil, which won’t work for sage.
What should not be planted near lavender?
What plants should you avoid pairing with lavender? Because lavender loves full sun and dry conditions, it doesn’t do well with perennials or annuals that prefer shade. Plants such as some types of impatiens, hosta, camellias and fuschia are not as drought-resistant, so their need for water may drown out lavender.
What plants well with Russian sage?
Companion Plants: Because of the wispy nature of Russian Sage, it is fabulous planted with a flower that can pick up the violet-blue of its many flower panicles, and ‘grow through it, such as Coneflower (Echinacea spp.), globe thistle (Echinops ritro) or tall verbena (Verbena bonariensis).
Should I plant lavender or Russian sage?
But Russian sage can handle more water (and lavender thrives in poor soil) Lavender can’t stand much water. Russian sage, however, can grow in dry-to-medium soil. And while both plants can deal with less-than-ideal soil conditions, for lavender, the poorer the quality of the soil (even sand), the better.
How do you plant lavender and sage?
Can you use Russian sage in flower arrangements?
I have even used Perovskia (most people know that perennial as ‘Russian Sage’) in my “wild flower” arrangements because it gives a beautiful wispy feel, smells good too. My favorite time of the year are when my Peonies start to bloom!
Does Russian sage repel mosquitoes?
Both Russian Sage and Lemon Verbena are known for cooking, but they have distinct smells that keep mosquitoes away.
Does Russian sage repel animals?
If your garden is frequently harassed by deer or rabbits—or even worse, by both—you should consider planting Russian sage. Although no plant is totally immune if either of these animals is hungry enough, Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a good deterrent.
What insects are attracted to Russian sage?
However, everything about Russian sage makes it a perfect plant for your pollinator garden. It is low-maintenance, drought tolerant, and is not eaten by deer or rabbits. At the same time, it is popular with all sorts of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hover flies.
Are hummingbirds attracted to Russian sage?
Russian sage is a hummingbird’s favorite because of the multitude of blooms and the shape of the flowers. It produces a nice fragrance that can attract humans too! This plant blooms mid to late summer and provides food for the hummingbirds during that time.
Is Russian sage toxic to dogs?
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a great fall plant. And thankfully, these pretty, purple plants are not considered toxic to pets.
What plant do bugs hate?
Chrysanthemums. This might be the best plant to deter bugs. Ants, Japanese beetles, roaches, bed bugs, spider mites, silverfish, and ticks will stay away if you have some of these around. Some bug repellents use an ingredient in this flower because of how effective it is.
What bugs does lavender attract?
Lavender.
About the only insects you see around lavender are bees. They love the flowers, but other bugs stay away.
Do roaches like lavender?
Lavender. Cockroaches hate the smell of lavender, and that is good news for you. If you love to grow lavender in your yard and garden, you are more than halfway to a roach-free home.
