Phlomis russeliana aka Turkish Sage

Phlomis russeliana is a perennial in the mint family. Its common names include Turkish sage and Jerusalem sage. Kew places its native range in northern Turkey. RHS also lists Turkey, while Missouri Botanical Garden includes Syria. It grows in woods, clearings, and hazel scrub. Records from Turkey reach 5,577 feet [1,700 metres] above sea level.

This plant forms a leafy clump with upright flower stems. Missouri Botanical Garden gives a height of 3 feet [0.91 metres]. Its usual spread there is 2 feet [0.61 metres]. RHS lists larger sizes, reaching 5 feet [1.5 metres] tall. Its spread can reach 3.3 feet [1 metre]. The broad, oval leaves have heart-shaped bases and rough surfaces. They range from grey-green to mid-green and have a scent. White, woolly hairs coat their undersides. The basal leaves reach 6–8 inches [0.15–0.20 metres] long. The plant loses its leaves in winter.

Stout, four-sided stems rise above the low mound of leaves. Small, pale yellow flowers form rings along these stems. Each tubular flower has a hood and two lips. Bloom dates vary between sources, from late spring into autumn. Missouri Botanical Garden lists June to September. The seed heads add interest from late summer through winter. The flowers suit both fresh bouquets and dried displays. Chicago Botanic Garden reports that the plant draws birds and butterflies.

Give this plant full sun and fertile soil that drains well. It also tolerates light shade, though sun is preferred. Sandy soil suits it, but loam and chalk also work. It grows in acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. It withstands dry soil, heat, and drought. In hot summers, it benefits from some regular water. Avoid wet soil, and avoid excess water or fertiliser. RHS rates it H6; Missouri lists USDA zones 5–9. Plants reach full size within two to five years. Divide them in spring, or sow seed that season.

Rhizomes spread fast and build a cover that blocks weeds. Sources do not describe this spread as invasive. Use it in borders, meadows, gravel gardens, or informal beds. Deer resist its foliage, and Chicago also reports rabbit resistance. Serious pest and disease problems are not usual. Leafhoppers may occur, and honey fungus is a rare risk. Plants For A Future records no known food or medicinal uses. It lists no known hazards, rather than proof of safety.