Pollination Info for Little Spire Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire')

Little Spire Russian Sage is a perennial plant that produces small blue-purple flowers in summer. Although it does produce nectar, the primary pollinators of Little Spire Russian Sage are bees and butterflies.

Bees, particularly honeybees and bumblebees, are attracted to the blue-purple color of the flowers and feed on the nectar produced in the blooms. As they move from flower to flower collecting nectar, they inadvertently transfer pollen from the male parts of the flower to the female parts, allowing for fertilization and the production of seeds.

Butterflies are also attracted to the flower color and nectar, and they can transfer pollen as they feed. Some butterflies, like the monarch, also lay their eggs on the leaves of Little Spire Russian Sage, making this plant a valuable host for their larva.

Hummingbirds may also be attracted to the flowers, but they are not significant pollinators of this particular plant.

Overall, Little Spire Russian Sage is a valuable addition to a pollinator-friendly garden, attracting and supporting important pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Little Spire Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire') FAQ

General Information

• What is Little Spire Russian Sage? Little Spire Russian Sage is a perennial plant known for its lacy, aromatic foliage and spikes of lavender-blue flowers that bloom in mid-summer and continue into fall.
• What is the origin of Little Spire Russian Sage? Little Spire Russian Sage is a cultivar of the species Perovskia atriplicifolia, which is native to southwestern and central Asia.
• How tall does Little Spire Russian Sage grow? Little Spire Russian Sage typically grows to a height of 18-24 inches.
• What is the hardiness zone for Little Spire Russian Sage? Little Spire Russian Sage is hardy in zones 4-9.
• What is the best planting location for Little Spire Russian Sage? Little Spire Russian Sage prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can tolerate poor soil and drought once established, but it does not do well in wet or boggy soil.

Care and Maintenance

• How often should Little Spire Russian Sage be watered? Little Spire Russian Sage should be watered deeply once a week during dry spells. It does not need frequent watering, and too much water can cause root rot.
• How often should Little Spire Russian Sage be fertilized? Little Spire Russian Sage does not need frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized in early spring with a general-purpose fertilizer, but it does not need additional fertilizer throughout the growing season.
• When should Little Spire Russian Sage be pruned? Little Spire Russian Sage should be pruned in early spring before new growth appears. It can be pruned back to within a few inches of the ground to promote bushier growth and more flowers.
• How can I propagate Little Spire Russian Sage? Little Spire Russian Sage can be propagated through division in early spring or by taking softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
• Does Little Spire Russian Sage attract pollinators? Yes, Little Spire Russian Sage is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Pest and Disease Control

• What pests and diseases are common to Little Spire Russian Sage? Little Spire Russian Sage is generally pest and disease resistant. However, spider mites and rust can occasionally be a problem.
• How can I control spider mites on Little Spire Russian Sage? Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or with an insecticidal soap.
• How can I control rust on Little Spire Russian Sage? Rust can be controlled by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.

Planting and Care for Little Spire Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire')

Planting

Little Spire Russian Sage is a hardy perennial that loves full sun and well-draining soil. To plant, dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. Gently loosen the roots, place the plant in the hole, and backfill with soil. Water thoroughly.

Watering

While Little Spire Russian Sage is drought tolerant, it still needs regular, deep watering during the first growing season to establish roots. After that, it only needs water during prolonged periods of drought.

Fertilizing

Little Spire Russian Sage doesn't need a lot of fertilizer. In fact, too much can cause leggy growth and reduce flowering. A light application of a slow-release fertilizer in early spring is sufficient.

Pruning

Pruning Little Spire Russian Sage can help maintain its compact shape and encourage more blooms. Cut back stems by about one-third in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Deadhead spent blooms throughout the growing season to encourage more flowers.

Pests and Diseases

Little Spire Russian Sage is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil doesn't drain well.

Winter Care

LITTLE SPIRE'S HARDY TO USDA ZONE 4 (-30°F).

In areas that experience harsh winters, Little Spire Russian Sage should be cut back to the ground after the first hard freeze. Mulch around the base of the plant to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.