Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Silver Sceptre'

– Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

– Resistant To: Deer and rabbits typically avoid this plant due to its aromatic foliage

– Bloom Period: Summer through fall

– Foliage: Deciduous; dies back in winter and re-emerges in spring

– Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4–9

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  – Xeriscaping
  – Pollinator gardens
  – Silver accent borders
  – Cottage-style plantings

– Color: Grey-green

– Texture: Finely textured and aromatic, releasing a pleasant scent when brushed

– Arrangement: Opposite leaves along square stems, characteristic of the mint family

– Color: Deep blue

– Size: Small, tubular flowers arranged in large, airy clusters

– Bloom Time: Summer through fall

– Fragrance: Mildly fragrant, adding sensory appeal to the garden

– Best Time to Plant: Spring

– Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; tolerates poor to fertile soils

– Planting Depth: Plant 1 inch deep

– Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to accommodate mature spread

– Mulching: Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

– Timing: Prune in early spring when new growth appears

– Method: Cut back to just above the lowest bud to encourage robust growth

– Establishment Phase: Water regularly to help establish a strong root system

– Mature Plants: Drought-tolerant; water during prolonged dry periods

– Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases

– Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight daily)

– Cut Flowers: Ideal for fresh arrangements; harvest when flowers are fully open

– Drying: Can be dried for use in potpourri or herbal sachets

– Best Time to Harvest: Morning hours after dew has evaporated, ensuring optimal fragrance and longevity

– Initial Planting: Incorporate a balanced, slow-release fertilizer into the soil

– Annual Feeding: Apply a light dose of balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed

– Avoid Over-Fertilization: Excess nutrients can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering

– Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

– Pollination Type: Self-fertile; no need for multiple plants for fruit production

– Echinacea purpurea (Coneflower)

– Rudbeckia fulgida (Black-eyed Susan)

– Achillea millefolium (Yarrow)

– Gaillardia (Blanket Flower)

– Salvia nemorosa

– Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender)

– Sedum spp.

– Ornamental grasses (Panicum, Schizachyrium, Stipa)