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Herbaceous Perennial

Phlomoides tuberosa
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

sage-leaf mullein

A clump-forming perennial with deeply veined and sharply serrated, dark green arrow-shaped basal leaves. Tall, upright, dark purple, leafy stems bear clusters of purple or pink flowers in mid and late summer

Synonyms
Phlomis tuberosa
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Purple Pink Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe to Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in fertile, reliably well-drained soil in full sun; will tolerate partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring. Propagate by seed sown at 13-18°C in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 8 or pruning group 9

Pests

Leafhoppers may be a problem

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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