Phlomis italica

Jerusalem Sage
Phlomis italica
Type: Evergreen Shrub
Exposure: Sun
Water: Regular to Drought Tolerant.

Sometimes, thanks to berries, seed heads, etc., a plant can become a striking accent, even in its off-season. This is called winter interest, and today’s plant is an example of that. The evergreen, sage-like foliage is fuzzy, and a dusty grey-green color. It forms a mound 1ft (30cm) high by 2ft (60cm) wide. Pinkish-lavender colored flowers appear in whorls in mid-summer, spaced vertically on spikes that rise above the foliage. These become the seed pods that remain well into the winter (top photo). Bees and butterflies are attracted to Jerusalem sage, but deer supposedly aren’t…which can be a useful trait if you live in a rural area.

Cheers,

John