Phlomis fruticosa aka Jerusalem Sage

Phlomis fruticosa, or Jerusalem sage, belongs to the mint family. Its native range runs from Sardinia east to Transcaucasia. It grows in Greece, Italy, Turkey, Cyprus, and nearby regions. Wild plants grow on dry cliffs and rocky limestone hills. This woody shrub forms a low mound with upright shoots. It keeps its leaves in warm climates. In colder areas, it may shed them for winter.

Garden plants reach about 2–4 feet [0.6–1.2 metres] tall. Their spread reaches 3–5 feet [0.9–1.5 metres]. RHS gives a smaller height range of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Many stems rise from the base and bear white hairs. The leaves grow in pairs on opposite sides of stems. They range from oval to narrow and pointed. Their grey-green tops have a wrinkled surface and soft feel. Dense fine hairs make the undersides look white. The leaves have a pleasant scent and reach about five inches long.

Yellow flowers grow in rings around the upper stems. Each flower has a tube and a hooded upper lip. The blooms lack scent but draw bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Flowering runs from late spring through late summer. Missouri Botanical Garden lists June through August as its bloom season. Small brown capsules follow in late summer and autumn. Each measures less than an inch long. The seed heads can stay in place for winter interest.

Give this shrub full sun and soil that drains well. It accepts some shade, but stems may grow long and weak. It grows in sand, loam, or clay with good drainage. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. Dry to moist conditions suit it, and it tolerates drought. RHS rates its UK hardiness as H5. US zone listings differ: NC State lists 7–10, while Chicago lists 4–8. Growth can be fast, though RHS gives five to ten years to maturity.

Use it in borders, containers, cottage gardens, or mass plantings. Its flowers suit fresh and dried arrangements. It can form a low hedge and withstand trimming. Dense plants can cover ground in sunny, sheltered spots. Deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone. Leafhoppers may cause trouble, and honey fungus occurs rarely. Ancient Greeks used its leaves as lamp wicks. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. It also reports no known hazards.