Latin name: Phlomis russeliana
by Vancouver Island Master Gardeners Association
Phlomis russeliana or Jerusalem Sage, a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) is an attractive plant that appears deer resistant.
Its ovate leaves form a basal clump which remains green throughout the year, making it an attractive addition to a perennial bed even in winter. Starting in early summer, flower stalks grow to about 3 feet (90 cm). The whorls of hood-shaped yellow flowers encircling the stalks are long-lasting and suitable for cutting.
While preferring a sunny spot, this hardy herbaceous perennial easily tolerates some shade and is not fussy as to soil type.
Photos courtesy of: Dorothee Kieser.
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Attribute |
Description |
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Form: |
Plants grow from rhizomes and form dense clumps. |
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Foliage type: |
Leaves in basal clump are broad, ovate, rough textured grey-green leaves 2 ½ - 8” (6-20 cm) long. Leaves along flower stalk are smaller and scalloped. |
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Height/Width: |
After 2-5 years, the plant reaches a clump size of 30” (75 cm) or more. Height of flower stalks: 36” (90 cm). |
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Hardiness Zone: |
Zones 5 to 9. |
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Exposure: |
Full sun, but tolerates part shade well. |
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Flower colour: |
Yellow. |
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Leaf colour: |
Grey-green. |
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Flower time: |
June – September. |
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Preferred soil and Watering: |
Grows Grows well in a Mediterranean setting. Soil should be well drained. |
| Pests & diseases: |
Generally trouble free, but occasionally leaf hoppers can be a problem. |
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Other: |
This plant is rarely browsed by deer. The seed heads give winter interest to the garden. They should be cut back in early spring. Plants can be divided in mid-spring. Phlomis flowers are good in a cutting garden and also dry well. The plant originated in Turkey/Syria. At Milner Gardens & Woodland, the Phlomis russeliana can be found in the beds around the Grand Lawn. |