Russian sage (Salvia yangii)
Care, watering, light and tips for Russian sage on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Russian sage
Salvia yangii, also known as Russian Sage, is an aromatic deciduous shrub belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is characterized by its silvery stems, finely divided leaves, and a profusion of lavender-blue flowers that appear from mid-summer until autumn. This plant is ideal for low-maintenance gardens, rockeries, sunny borders, or as part of a Mediterranean landscape, providing lasting texture and color.
Native range
Central Asia, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, western China, and the Himalayas
Care tips
Salvia yangii thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours daily for optimal flowering and dense foliage. It is extremely drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be sparse, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. It requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or rocky, and does not tolerate waterlogging. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering or growing in heavy, poorly drained soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Russian sage
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting, lifeless leaves. Lack of blooms or dry flowers.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Prune dry stems. Repot if in a small container.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or heavy soil. Lack of direct sun or insufficient pruning.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and conditions are corrected.