shrub RHS Award

Jerusalem sage

Phlomis fruticosa

$16.99

The Story

Plant Bio

Evergreen shrub with aromatic leaves and upright growth habit.

Unique for its woolly leaves and long-lasting bloom period.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesPhlomis fruticosa adds silvery foliage and vibrant flowers, ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant, reducing water needs.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nectar for pollinators and habitat for beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

40 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low to average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean, Turkey, Syria

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Great Garden Plants
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<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotTrays
In Stock$16.99
<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal Pot
In Stock$25.00

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting.
  3. Plant in full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry periods to establish roots.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
  6. Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water moderately during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to maintain shape
  • Use organic compost for fertilizing

Don't

  • Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
  • Allow soil to become waterlogged
  • Neglect pruning after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant shrub in xeriscapes

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaRosemary SedumArtemisia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Jerusalem sage questions

What zones can Jerusalem sage grow in?

Jerusalem sage is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Jerusalem sage deer resistant?

Yes — Jerusalem sage is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Jerusalem sage bloom?

Jerusalem sage typically blooms in late spring to early summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Jerusalem sage need full sun?

Jerusalem sage does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Jerusalem sage drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Jerusalem sage handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Jerusalem sage with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.