Russian sage is not a salvia, or true sage, but the grey-green of its foliage, its aromatic qualities and purple flowers are certainly similar to that large genus. The Latin genus name, Perovskia is one that many gardeners enjoy learning, as it seems to impart an immediate Russian accent to the speaker, and virtually trips off the tongue. That name commemorates a 19th century Russian general, and not as many think, the country itself.