A Mediterranean perennial with as much beauty as it has history, Phlomis fruticosa, known commonly as Jerusalem Sage, has been a pinnacle selection for Grecian, Italian, Turkish, and Cretian gardens, just to name a few. This centuries-old favorite exhibits pleasantly fuzzy, mildly fragrant, grey-green foliage that both deters deer and also invites curious hands to explore its softness. The leaves were historically used as wicks in Grecian lamps, and it is for this reason that is thought to have acquired Phlomis, meaning “flame”, as its genetic moniker. From May to late June, bright yellow inflorescences resembling snapdragon-like mint-shaped flowers bloom above the foliage, attracting various pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Despite the flowers themselves not emitting a fragrance, they make excellent cut flowers, and experience quite a long bloom time in the landscape. Jerusalem Sage’s Mediterranean heritage ensures that it is drought tolerant, while its pubescent, lambs-ear-like foliage is known for remaining pest and disease free. Phlomis fruticosa achieves a manageable height of 2’ and would much rather spread horizontally, creating a lovely mass of the soft foliage that’s perfect for accentuating the garden border or easily reachable area of the sunny sensory garden.

• Category: Perennials
• Hardiness Zone: 8
• Height: 24 Inches
• Spread: 40 Inches
• Bloom Color: Yellow