perennial

Purple Phlomis

Q: What zones can Purple Phlomis grow in?

Purple Phlomis 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.

Q: Is Purple Phlomis deer resistant?

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

Q: When does Purple Phlomis bloom?

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

Q: Does Purple Phlomis need full sun?

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

Q: Is Purple Phlomis drought tolerant?

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

Phlomis purpurea

$14.50

The Story

Plant Bio

Phlomis purpurea, commonly known as Jerusalem sage, is a perennial herb that features tall, upright stems and attractive whorled leaves. It produces clusters of tubular purple flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators.

Unique for its striking purple flowers and ability to thrive in Mediterranean climates, it's often used in drought-tolerant gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking purple flowers and silvery foliage, ideal for borders and accent plantings.

Drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies with abundant nectar.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Late summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Dancing Oaks

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$14.50

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during establishment.
Mist cuttings to maintain humidity and encourage rooting, usually in 6 weeks.
Transplant seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall into full sun locations.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth.
Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead or damaged stems.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Apply organic compost annually
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season
Avoid heavy shade; prefers full sun
Don’t neglect pruning after flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged borderDrought-tolerant garden accent

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaRussian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Phlomis questions

What zones can Purple Phlomis grow in?

Purple Phlomis 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 Purple Phlomis deer resistant?

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

When does Purple Phlomis bloom?

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

Does Purple Phlomis need full sun?

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

Is Purple Phlomis drought tolerant?

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