Russian sage

noun

: an upright Asian subshrub (Perovskia atriplicifolia) of the mint family that is grown as an ornamental for its long narrow panicles of violet-blue flowers and grayish-green stems and leaves

Examples of Russian sage in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Another excellent option for sandy soil that Sing recommends is Russian sage (Salvia yangii). Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 16 Apr. 2026 Slightly Acidic to alkaline (6.0-8.0) USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 9 With silvery foliage and a long blooms season, Russian sage provides months of color and texture to the garden. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 Apr. 2026 One thing Russian sage can't live without is full sun, which is essential for healthy bloom production. Jamie McIntosh, The Spruce, 3 Mar. 2026 For a punishing hotbox of a bed hemmed in by paved areas or masonry walls that absorb summer sun, consider drought-tolerant perennials and shrubs such as Russian sage, little bluestem grass, showy goldenrod or juniper. Beth Botts, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2025 In this vignette, terra cotta pots of different sizes and shades tie together an eclectic group of yellow-and-purple plants that includes agave, coreopsis, Russian sage, and dwarf morning glory. Mike Irvine, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Russian sage was in 1940

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Cite this Entry

“Russian sage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Russian%20sage. Accessed 24 Apr. 2026.

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