Jerusalem sage, learn to grow Phlomis fruticosa

Phlomis fruticosa, known as Jerusalem sage, is a low-maintenance, decorative, and hardy shrub.

Key Jerusalem Sage facts:

Name: Phlomis fruticosa
Family: Lamiaceae
Type: perennial

Height: about 5 feet (150 cm)
Exposure: sunny to partially shaded
Soil: ordinary, even poor

Foliage: evergreen – Bloom: May to July

Planting Phlomis fruticosa

You can plant Jerusalem sage, or Phlomis fruticosa, in either spring or fall, ideally in well-drained soil.Indeed, when planting Jerusalem sage, ensure your soil drains well because this plant hates standing water.

• Phlomis fruticosa loves sunny spots for a healthy bloom.
• Jerusalem sage doesn’t fear wind—in fact, it quite likes it!
• It absolutely needs light soil—try mixing soil with sand or pebbles.
• Space each plant a minimum of 3.3 feet (100 cm) apart, as Jerusalem sage quickly takes up space.
• Multiply with cuttings in summer.

Caring for Jerusalem sage

When it comes to upkeep, this plant is super easy to grow and barely needs any care. No need for watering once it’s established because it can survive without water for many long weeks.

Pruning Phlomis fruticosa, the Jerusalem sage

After blooming, cut it down by about half to maintain a compact shape and enhance next year’s blooms.

Jerusalem sage losing leaves in winter

• Trim any stems that have frozen and aren’t budding in the spring.

Diseases on Phlomis fruticosa

Jerusalem sage, or Phlomis fruticosa, is a hardy plant, resistant to most diseases.

You may spot leafhoppers at the base of leaves, but it shouldn’t hinder growth or flowering of the Jerusalem sage.

Need-to-know about Jerusalem sage

You can distinguish Jerusalem sage thanks to its fuzzy leaves, also known as bush sage or bushy phlomis.

The Jerusalem sage sprouts beautiful yellow flowers in the spring, creating a stunningly beautiful flowering bush.

Sharing the same family tree as thyme, basil, rosemary, and medicinal sage, Jerusalem sage traces its roots back to the Mediterranean.

It’s this plant’s hardiness and adaptability to dry and challenging areas, like beachfronts, that make us love Phlomis fruticosa. It’s worth noting, though, that while the Jerusalem sage is evergreen, it might shed its leaves in winter if it gets cold.