Phlomis fruticosa

New to our Sunnyvale garden in 2018, this Mediterranean native adds texture and summer color to the landscape with minimal care. Whorls of butter-yellow flowers contrast with woolly, silver-grey leaves on a dense shrub-like form. Plant this sun-loving, water-wise perennial as a border accent or mass on a sunny slope for a dramatic effect.

Despite its name, it is actually a close relative of mint. The misnomer comes from the appearance of its leaves, which are pale green and soft, like those of a sage plant.

The shrub is evergreen in USDA zones 8-11, though it can be treated as a perennial in zones 7, 6 and, sometimes, zone 5. The growth will die back with the frost and grow back from the roots in the spring.

There are actually several species of Jerusalem sage, all of which fall under the family name Phlomis. The most popular is Phlomis fruticosa. This Jerusalem sage usually grows to a height and spread of 3-4 feet.

In late spring and summer, it produces lots of bright yellow flowers on the upper ends of its stems. If the stems are promptly deadheaded, they will often flower a second time in the same growing season. If left on the plant, the flowers give way to attractive seed heads.

Read more at Gardening Know How: Jerusalem Sage Information: How To Grow Jerusalem Sage In The Garden https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/jerusalem-sage/jerusalem-sage-information.htm

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