Happiness is a haze of soft mauve in the garden and that’s the role which Perovskia 'Prime Time' is here to fill. Prime time for this Russian sage is impressively long, typically flowering from July through to mid autumn, and you can look forward to it every year because it is a resilient hardy perennial which will grow back summer after summer to have its moment in the spotlight. Silver-grey leaves complement the soft-purple hue of the flowers and, as an added bonus, the foliage is also aromatic. This variety is new and notable because it is slightly stockier, bushier and stronger than other varieties – Perovskia 'Prime Time' is neater in habit and doesn’t tend to lean or look wayward and too wispy like its relatives.

Bees and butterflies enjoy Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Prime Time', the flowers are full of nectar which they use to give them energy to carry out their valuable work. You can enjoy this hardy perennial in sunny borders, it’s also well-structured enough for patio containers. Being drought tolerant once it’s settled in, plants like Perovskia save water and also save you time, that’s more time you can spend enjoying your garden on blissful summer days rather than worrying about watering. If you enjoy the hazy, soft look in your garden, try combining Perovskia 'Prime Time' with Gypsophila. If you prefer contrast, plant some bold dahlias with it.