Phlomis russeliana

Phlomis russeliana Care Guide

Phlomis russeliana, commonly known as Turkish Sage, is a striking, long-lived perennial known for its architectural form, bold foliage, and unique whorled yellow flowers. It is an excellent choice for creating structure in borders, gravel gardens, and wildlife-friendly plantings. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, this plant is a fantastic addition to gardens looking for year-round interest and pollinator attraction.

Plant Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Phlomis russeliana
• Common Name: Turkish Sage
• Family: Lamiaceae
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Mature Size: Typically grows 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) in height and spreads 60–90 cm (24–36 inches)
• Foliage: Large, soft, heart-shaped, evergreen or semi-evergreen leaves with a textured surface
• Flower Color: Pale yellow flowers arranged in tiered whorls along upright stems
• Bloom Time: Early summer to late summer (June to August)
• Hardiness Zones: Hardy in USDA zones 5–9
• Growth Habit: Clump-forming with upright flower spikes and spreading ground cover foliage

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun for best flowering but will tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
• Soil Preferences: Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Tolerates sandy, chalky, or loamy soils but dislikes heavy, waterlogged ground.
• Watering Needs: Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant. Water regularly in the first growing season, then only during prolonged dry spells.
• Temperature and Humidity: Hardy to frost and can withstand cold temperatures. Best grown in areas with good air circulation to prevent humidity-related issues.
• Fertilization: Requires little feeding. A light application of compost or balanced fertilizer in early spring supports healthy growth.

Planting and Maintenance

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or autumn to allow roots to establish.
• Spacing: Space plants 60 cm (24 inches) apart to accommodate their spreading nature.
• Mulching: A light layer of mulch in early spring helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid heavy mulching to prevent excessive dampness.
• Pruning:
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming.
  • Leave seed heads on in autumn for winter interest and wildlife value.
  • Cut back stems in early spring to rejuvenate growth.
• Dividing Clumps: Divide plants every 3–5 years in spring to maintain vigor and create new plants.
• Pest and Disease Resistance: Generally pest-free and disease-resistant. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Benefits and Uses

• Attracts Pollinators: A valuable nectar source for bees and butterflies.
• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry gardens with minimal watering.
• Architectural Structure: Adds height and texture to borders with its bold foliage and striking flower spikes.
• Low-Maintenance: Requires little upkeep once established.
• Winter Interest: Dried seed heads provide structure and visual appeal in colder months.
• Ground Cover: Forms a dense mat of foliage that suppresses weeds effectively.

Potential Issues and Solutions

• Leggy Growth: If plants become floppy, provide support or trim back in early summer to encourage bushier growth.
• Root Rot: Avoid overwatering and ensure soil is well-draining to prevent root diseases.
• Self-Seeding: Can spread by self-seeding; remove unwanted seedlings to control spread if necessary.

Propagation Methods

• Division: The easiest and most effective method. Divide mature clumps in early spring or autumn, ensuring each section has healthy roots before replanting.
• Seed Propagation: Sow seeds in autumn or early spring. Germination is slow, so patience is required.

Companion Planting

Phlomis russeliana pairs well with a variety of other drought-tolerant and structural plants, including:

• Eryngium (Sea Holly) – Provides a striking contrast with its spiky blue flowers.
• Stipa (Feather Grass) – Enhances texture and movement in the garden.
• Lavender – A fragrant, sun-loving companion that thrives in similar conditions.
• Echinacea (Coneflower) – Adds additional color and supports pollinators.
• Nepeta (Catmint) – Complements Phlomis with its soft, blue-purple flowers and aromatic foliage.

Phlomis russeliana is a standout perennial, offering unique beauty, structural interest, and low-maintenance care. Perfect for dry gardens, wildlife planting, and bold border designs, it is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a long-lasting, easy-to-grow plant with year-round appeal

• Size
  2L

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

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All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

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Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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