Jerusalem Sage

Scientific Name: Phlomis fruticosa

Common Names: Jerusalem Sage

Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade

Height: 2 to 4 feet 

Width: 3 to 5 feet 

Seasonal Interest: Yellow flowers in late spring to summer; gray-green, woolly foliage year-round

Winter Look: Semi-evergreen to evergreen

Drought Tolerance: High; very drought-tolerant once established

Deer Resistance: High

Attracts: Bees, butterflies, pollinators

Hardiness Zones: 7 to 10 (USDA)

Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil are ideal, but they also do well in rocky limestone soil

pH Range: Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5 to 8)

Native To: Mediterranean region (Southern Europe, Northern Africa)

Potential Disease Issues: Root rot if overwatered, powdery mildew in high humidity, can get black sooty mold as well. Most of these issues are due to poor air circulation, over-watering, or inadequate lighting.

Notes: Low-maintenance plant; great for xeriscaping; can be used as a focal point in dry gardens. Jerusalem sage can be a skin and respiratory irritant. If I wear short sleeves and no mask, when I trim these, I get super itchy, sneezy, and snotty. My employee has more respiratory issues when dealing with these, so he keeps his distance.