Perovskia 'Little Spire'

Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Little Spire': Compact Drift of Silver and Sky

A scaled-down version of classic Russian sage, Perovskia 'Little Spire' offers the same airy lavender-blue blooms and aromatic silver foliage in a more compact, garden-friendly form. Blooming from midsummer through fall, its upright spires add softness and structure to sunny borders, attracting bees, butterflies, and admiring glances. With its drought tolerance and tidy habit, it’s an ideal choice for smaller gardens, urban spaces, and layered perennial plantings.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 60–75 cm
• Spread: 45–60 cm
• Flower Colour: Lavender-blue
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to fall
• Foliage: Silvery-green, finely cut, aromatic
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy or average soil; drought tolerant

Uses and Benefits: 'Little Spire' brings a refined vertical accent to dry borders, pollinator gardens, and compact landscapes. Its manageable height and upright form make it easy to tuck between grasses and bold bloomers. Resistant to deer and tolerant of poor soils, it offers long-lasting colour with minimal input and supports a wide array of beneficial insects throughout the season.

Companion Plants: Pair with the tall, structural blades of Panicum 'Northwind', the rich pink blooms of Echinacea 'Prairie Splendor Compact Rose', and the soft lavender-blue haze of Nepeta 'Purrsian Blue' for a drought-tolerant combination full of texture, movement, and pollinator appeal.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with excellent drainage. Water to establish, then sparingly. Cut back stems to 15–20 cm in early spring to promote full, upright growth. Avoid heavy or overly fertile soils to maintain dense form and prevent floppiness.

History: A dwarf selection of Perovskia atriplicifolia, 'Little Spire' was introduced in Europe for its improved habit and suitability for small gardens. It retains all the resilience of its species with a tidier, more compact profile.

Final Thoughts: With its silver-toned foliage and sky-blue bloom, Perovskia 'Little Spire' brings elegance and ease to sun-soaked borders—perfect for gardeners seeking compact beauty with lasting seasonal impact.