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Herbaceous Perennial

Phlomis longifolia
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

long-leaved Jerusalem sage

A smaller species, clump-forming perennial with rough-textured, heart-shaped and long, dark green leaves which are hairy and silvery green on the underside. Whorls of yellow flowers shoot up in spring flowering all through summer and autumn. Seedheads can offer structural interest in winter and also attract wildlife

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Yellow Green Grey Silver
Autumn Yellow Green Grey Silver
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Lamiaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Phlomis can be herbaceous perennials or evergreen shrubs, with sage-like leaves and whorls of tubular, hooded flowers over a long period in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
SW Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Will grow nicely in fertile well-drained soil in full sun and will tolerate some partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by division and seed in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back to the ground as the foliage dies down, flower heads can be left until spring if upright for winter interest

Pests

May be susceptible to leafhoppers

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)

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