Feathery plumes of purple-blue flowers add a dose of cool color

Neither from Russia nor a type of sage, Russian sage is nonetheless an excellent plant for the perennial garden. The plant grows from 2' to 4' tall, depending on the variety, with feathery gray-green foliage. In summer, whorls of tiny, light blue flowers appear atop the stiff, upright stems, and blooms continue into early fall. This plant's delicate, airy appearance belies its toughness — it's uncommonly adaptable, easy to grow, and drought tolerant once established.