Phlomis russeliana

Phlomis russeliana: Jerusalem Sage's Wild Grace

With its softly felted foliage and curious tiered flower whorls, Phlomis russeliana offers textural intrigue and long-lasting structure. In early to midsummer, upright stems rise with candelabra-like rings of soft yellow hooded flowers, which are followed by persistent architectural seedheads that carry interest into winter. The broad, grey-green leaves form a dense, weed-suppressing groundcover that’s deer resistant, drought tolerant, and dependable in tough garden conditions. Unfussy and quietly bold, this perennial is a true workhorse with flair.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 75–90 cm
• Spread: 60–75 cm
• Flower Colour: Soft yellow
• Flowering Period: June to August
• Foliage: Grey-green, coarse, semi-evergreen
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to light shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to dry soil

Uses and Benefits: Excellent in xeriscapes, gravel gardens, cottage borders, or mixed plantings where low-input structure is desired. Attracts pollinators while resisting browsing animals, and performs admirably through hot, dry summers. The long-lasting seedheads provide winter texture and make beautiful dried accents in arrangements.

Companion Plants: Pair with Salvia 'Caradonna', Achillea 'Moonshine', and Lavandula 'Ellagance Snow' for a sun-loving, drought-tolerant combination with layered texture and colour contrast.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun or part shade in well-drained soil. Water regularly to establish, then sparingly. Remove spent flower stems to encourage tidy form, or leave seedheads for winter interest. Cut back dead foliage in early spring.

History: Native to the mountains of Turkey and Syria, Phlomis russeliana has long been admired in European gardens for its durability and design value. Sometimes called Turkish sage, it is unrelated to true sages but shares their Mediterranean toughness and appeal.

Final Thoughts: Unique and underused, Phlomis russeliana adds long-season impact with minimal care—its softly architectural presence a reliable thread from summer to snow.